Wonderful Month!!!! - by Joshua PittmanWhen looking at the schedule coming back after Christmas break our team knew we would have the most difficult month of the year. We fought hard and played even harder and finished the month with a 6-2 record and are now alone if first place. There is no greater feeling than seeing the results of hard work and team work. Tonight we played one of the best teams in the country and trailed the majority of the game. Every time we got close they pulled away at times leading anywhere between 10 and 15 pts on more than 4 occasions. We continued to scrap and fight our way back winning the game on a buzzer beater by my man William Mcfarland!! I must repeat myself!!! What a wonderful month!!!! Peace and love to all!!!!!

CBA Round 21: Guandong Tigers are upset by Jilin Tigers - by Eurobasket NewsThe game between third ranked Guandong Tigers (14-6) and fifteenth ranked Jilin Tigers (7-13) was the most important one in the last round on Friday night. Guandong Tigers were edged by Jilin Tigers in a tough game in Changchun 105-107. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Guandong Tigers. The hosts trailed by 7 points after three quarters before their 30-25 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Jilin Tigers made 18-of-23 free shots (78.3 percent) during the game. They shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 61.9 percentage. 28 personal fouls committed by Guandong Tigers helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American power forward Jameel Watkins (211-77, college: Georgetown) who had a double-double by scoring 20 points, 14 rebounds and 4 blocks. Guard Wei Lu (194-85) chipped in 25 points (on 10-of-11 shooting from the field). At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Marcus Haislip (207-80, college: Tennessee) who recorded 37 points (!!!) (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line). Guandong Tigers' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Jilin Tigers moved-up to fourteenth place. Guandong Tigers at the other side keep the third position with six games lost. Jilin Tigers are looking forward to face higher ranked Jiangsu Dragons (#5) in Nanjing in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Guandong Tigers will play on the road against Beijing Ducks where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either. Leader Xinjiang Flying Tige delivered the eighteenth victory. This time they beat 9th ranked Qingdao Double Star (8-12) 96-82. It was a good game for American guard Quincy Douby (191-84, college: Rutgers) who led his team to a victory with 22 points, 6 assists and 5 steals. James Singleton contributed with 20 points, 6 rebounds and 4 blocks for the winners. American forward Charles Gaines (201-81, college: S.Mississippi, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) answered with a double-double by scoring 24 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists for Qingdao Double Star. Qingdao Double Star's coach tested eleven players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Xinjiang Flying Tige maintains first place with 18-1 record. Qingdao Double Star lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the eleventh position with 12 games lost. They share it with Foshan and Shanghai. Xinjiang Flying Tige will play against Fujian SBS XunXin (#16) in Jinjiang in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Qingdao Double Star will play at home against Shandong Bulls (#8) in Jinan and hopes to get back on the winning track. The game in Ningbo was also quite interesting. 5th ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (11-9) played at the court of seventh ranked Bayi Fubang (12-8). Bayi Fubang defeated Zhejiang Guangsha Lions 99-88 on Friday. ZhiZhi Wang stepped up with a double-double by scoring 33 points (!!!), 10 rebounds and 5 assists (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line) for the winners. The best for the losing side was Peter John Ramos with 23 points and 9 rebounds (on 11-of-13 shooting from the field). Bayi Fubang have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Beijing and Jiangsu. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the seventh position with nine games lost. Bayi Fubang will meet Liaoning Hunters (#9) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions will play against Shanghai Sharks and hope to secure a win. Seventeenth-ranked TianJin Rongcheng (3-16) made lots of trouble for thirteenth ranked Foshan (8-12) in Tianjin. The visitors from Foshan managed to secure only one-point victory 100-99. However their fans expected much easier game. Stephon Marbury nailed 34 points (!!!), 7 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals for the winning side. TianJin Rongcheng's coach let to play ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Foshan moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with Qingdao DS and Shanghai. TianJin Rongcheng lost fifth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 16 games lost. Foshan will have a break next round. TianJin Rongcheng will play on the road against the league's second-placed DongGuan Leopards (#2) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either. We should mention about the upset which took place in Nanjing, where 4th placed Jiangsu Dragons (12-8) lost at home to tenth ranked Liaoning Hunters (9-11) 98-106 on Friday. The best player for the winners was Tian-ju He who scored 25 points and 6 rebounds. Liaoning Hunters' coach Shiqiang Guo used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Liaoning Hunters moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Zhejiang C. Loser Jiangsu Dragons keep the fourth position with eight games lost. Liaoning Hunters will face higher ranked Bayi Fubang (#6) in Ningbo in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Jiangsu Dragons will play at home against Jilin Tigers in Changchun.

Other games of round 21 were very predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are: Shanghai was defeated by Zhejiang C. in Hangzhou 116-103. DongGuan smashed Shanxi Zh. at home 135-114. Fujian lost to Beijing on the opponent's court 85-93. The best stats of 21th round was 53 points (!!!), 9 rebounds and 4 assists by Marcus Williams of Zhejiang C..

Everything could happen in Hangzhou at the game between two tied teams. Both twelfth ranked Zhejiang Cyclones and 11th ranked Shanghai Sharks had identical 8-11 record. This time Zhejiang Cyclones used a home court advantage and beat the opponent from Shanghai 116-103 on Friday night. The game was mostly controlled by Zhejiang Cyclones. Shanghai Sharks was better in third quarter 30-29. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Zhejiang Cyclones shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 59.1 percentage. Shanghai Sharks were plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was American forward Marcus Williams (201-86, college: Arizona, agency: ZAG Advocates) who scored 53 points (!!!), 9 rebounds and 4 assists. International center Jinhui Ding (204-90) chipped in 19 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Mike Harris (198-83, college: Rice) who recorded a double-double by scoring 23 points and 14 rebounds (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line) and the other American import guard John Lucas (180-82, college: Oklahoma St.) added 24 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists respectively. Four Zhejiang Cyclones and five Shanghai Sharks players scored in double figures. Shanghai Sharks' coach gave the chance to play for eleven players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Zhejiang Cyclones (9-11) moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Liaoning. Loser Shanghai Sharks keep the eleventh position with 12 games lost. Zhejiang Cyclones will face Shanxi Zhongyu (#15) in Taiyuan in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Shanghai Sharks will play on the road against Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (#7) in Hangzhou. Top scorers:Zhejiang C.: W.Marcus 53+9reb+4ast, D.Jinhui 19+7reb+4ast, B.Josh 17+7reb+2ast, Z.Chunjun 13+4reb, J.Lipeng 9+2reb+1ast, C.Fei 5+5reb+4astShanghai: L.John 24+5reb+4ast, H.Mike 23+14reb, L.Wei 20+2reb+5ast, P.Fei 13+4reb, W.Yong-Liang 13+3reb, W.Ligang 6+3reb

The game between third ranked Guandong Tigers (14-6) and fifteenth ranked Jilin Tigers (7-13) was the most important one in the last round on Friday night. Guandong Tigers were edged by Jilin Tigers in a tough game in Changchun 105-107. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Guandong Tigers. The hosts trailed by 7 points after three quarters before their 30-25 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Jilin Tigers made 18-of-23 free shots (78.3 percent) during the game. They shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 61.9 percentage. 28 personal fouls committed by Guandong Tigers helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American power forward Jameel Watkins (211-77, college: Georgetown) who had a double-double by scoring 20 points, 14 rebounds and 4 blocks. Guard Wei Lu (194-85) chipped in 25 points (on 10-of-11 shooting from the field). At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Marcus Haislip (207-80, college: Tennessee) who recorded 37 points (!!!) (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line) and international swingman ShiPeng Wang (197-83) added 19 points and 5 rebounds respectively. Five Jilin Tigers and four Guandong Tigers players scored in double figures. Guandong Tigers' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Jilin Tigers moved-up to fourteenth place. Guandong Tigers at the other side keep the third position with six games lost. Jilin Tigers are looking forward to face higher ranked Jiangsu Dragons (#5) in Nanjing in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Guandong Tigers will play on the road against Beijing Ducks where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either. Top scorers:Jilin: L.Wei 25+4reb+3ast, W.Jameel 20+14reb+2ast, Z.Cheng 19+8reb+3ast, P.Tim 17+5reb, Y.Shulong 12+3reb+2ast, L.Tao 10+1rebGuandong: H.Marcus 37+3reb, W.ShiPeng 19+5reb+3ast, Z.FangYu 13+6reb+4ast, C.Jianghua 11+4reb+3ast, L.XiaoYu 9+3reb+1ast, Z.Peng 8+2reb+6ast

No shocking result in a game when second ranked DongGuan Leopards (17-3) smashed at home 14th ranked Shanxi Zhongyu (6-13) 135-114 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by DongGuan Leopards. Shanxi Zhongyu was better in fourth quarter 32-23. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. DongGuan Leopards made 25-of-33 free shots (75.8 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. Shanxi Zhongyu was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was American-Lebanese power forward Jackson Vroman (208-81, college: Iowa St.) who scored 30 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field). Nigerian guard Josh-Emmanuel Akognon (180-86, college: Cal.St. Fullerton) chipped in 33 points (!!!), 6 assists and 4 steals. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Shawn Taggart (207-85, college: Memphis) who recorded a double-double by scoring 34 points (!!!) and 11 rebounds and the other American import forward Leon Rodgers (199-80, college: N.Illinois) added 26 points and 6 rebounds respectively. Five DongGuan Leopards and four Shanxi Zhongyu players scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. DongGuan Leopards maintains second place with 17-3 record behind leader Xinjiang. Loser Shanxi Zhongyu dropped to the fifteenth position with 13 games lost. DongGuan Leopards will face bottom-ranked TianJin Rongcheng (#17) in Tianjin in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Shanxi Zhongyu will play at home against Zhejiang Cyclones in Hangzhou. Top scorers:DongGuan: A.Josh-Emmanuel 33+3reb+6ast, V.Jackson 30+8reb+8ast, Z.Kai 18+11reb+3ast, P.Duo 14+3reb+3ast, Q.Biao 12+2reb, H.ZhongMian 11+2reb+1astShanxi Zh.: T.Shawn 34+11reb+1ast, R.Leon 26+6reb+3ast, D.Osama 15+1reb+5ast, D.JiangPeng 14+5reb+3ast, Y.Changdong 8+2reb, P.Shang 7+4reb

The game in Ningbo was also quite interesting. 5th ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (11-9) played at the court of seventh ranked Bayi Fubang (12-8). Bayi Fubang defeated Zhejiang Guangsha Lions 99-88 on Friday. The hosts trailed by 7 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 6-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 99-88. Bayi Fubang made 20-of-21 free shots (95.2 percent) during the game. They also forced 19 Zhejiang Guangsha Lions turnovers and outrebounded them 44-30 including 18 on the offensive glass. The former international center ZhiZhi Wang (214-79) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 33 points (!!!), 10 rebounds and 5 assists (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line) for the winners and the former international center Ke Mo (210-82) chipped in 20 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Five Bayi Fubang players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American-Puerto Rican center Peter John Ramos (222-85) with 23 points and 9 rebounds (on 11-of-13 shooting from the field) and Taiwanese swingman Chih-Chieh Lin (192-82) scored 21 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Bayi Fubang have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Beijing and Jiangsu. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the seventh position with nine games lost. Bayi Fubang will meet Liaoning Hunters (#9) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions will play against Shanghai Sharks and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Bayi: W.ZhiZhi 33+10reb+5ast, M.Ke 20+9reb+6ast, W.Lei 12+14reb+1ast, Z.Bo 11+1reb+4ast, H.Shuo 10+5reb+1ast, W.ZhongGuang 7+3reb+2astZhejiang G.L.: R.Peter John 23+9reb+1ast, L.Chih-Chieh 21+7reb+4ast, Z.Wei 10, K.Tre 10+2reb+2ast, X.YuYang 9+3reb+3ast, D.Li 9+4reb+2ast

Seventeenth-ranked TianJin Rongcheng (3-16) made lots of trouble for thirteenth ranked Foshan (8-12) in Tianjin. The visitors from Foshan managed to secure only one-point victory 100-99. However their fans expected much easier game. TianJin Rongcheng was ahead by 8 points after three quarters before a 30-21 charge of Foshan, which allowed them to win the game. They made 16-of-20 charity shots (80.0 percent) during the game. American guard Stephon Marbury (187-77, college: Georgia Tech) nailed 34 points (!!!), 7 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line) for the winning side and Nigerian-British power forward Olumide Oyedeji (208-81) accounted for 19 points and 14 rebounds (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field). American power forward Lee Benson (208-73, college: Brown Mackie, agency: Paris Global Sports) came up with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 13 rebounds and Ivorian-French power forward Herve Lamizana (207-81, college: Rutgers) added 15 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals respectively for TianJin Rongcheng in the defeat. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. TianJin Rongcheng's coach let to play ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Foshan moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with Qingdao DS and Shanghai. TianJin Rongcheng lost fifth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 16 games lost. Foshan will have a break next round. TianJin Rongcheng will play on the road against the league's second-placed DongGuan Leopards (#2) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either. Top scorers:Foshan: M.Stephon 34+7reb+7ast, O.Olumide 19+14reb, Y.Wenbo 17+3reb+1ast, H.Ben 14+4reb+3ast, Z.Yong-gang 10+6reb+1ast, Z.Zhun 6+2rebTianJin R.: Z.Nan 21+4reb+3ast, S.Chun 21+3reb+1ast, X.GuiJun 19+3reb, L.Herve 15+10reb+4ast, B.Lee 14+13reb+2ast, X.Lei 4+5reb+2ast

We should mention about the upset which took place in Nanjing, where 4th placed Jiangsu Dragons (12-8) lost at home to tenth ranked Liaoning Hunters (9-11) 98-106 on Friday. Jiangsu Dragons trailed by 15 points after 3 quarters before a 38-31 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 98-106 at the end of the game. Liaoning Hunters dominated on the defensive end, holding Jiangsu Dragons to just 6 points in second quarter. They outrebounded Jiangsu Dragons 48-30 including a 31-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. Jiangsu Dragons were plagued by 30 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was forward Tian-ju He (203-90) who scored 25 points and 6 rebounds. Forward Shunan Liu (198-90) chipped in 17 points. Liaoning Hunters' coach Shiqiang Guo used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. At the other side the best for losing team was American swingman Antoine Wright (201-84, college: Texas A&M) who recorded 21 points and 6 assists and the former international center ZhengDong Tang (213-84) added 26 points respectively. Four Liaoning Hunters and five Jiangsu Dragons players scored in double figures. Liaoning Hunters moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Zhejiang C. Loser Jiangsu Dragons keep the fourth position with eight games lost. Liaoning Hunters will face higher ranked Bayi Fubang (#6) in Ningbo in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Jiangsu Dragons will play at home against Jilin Tigers in Changchun. Top scorers:Liaoning: H.Tian-ju 25+6reb+1ast, L.Shunan 17+4reb+2ast, G.Ailun 14+2reb+6ast, H.Dejun 14+6reb+2ast, S.Donta 9+3reb+1ast, R.Chris 9+8rebJiangsu: T.ZhengDong 26+4reb, W.Antoine 21+4reb+6ast, Y.Li 15+4reb+3ast, M.Jerome 13+10reb+1ast, L.Yahui 11+6reb+1ast, H.XueFeng 6+2reb+1ast

Leader Xinjiang Flying Tige delivered the eighteenth victory. This time they beat 9th ranked Qingdao Double Star (8-12) 96-82. The game was mostly controlled by Xinjiang Flying Tige. Qingdao Double Star was better in third quarter 29-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a good game for American guard Quincy Douby (191-84, college: Rutgers) who led his team to a victory with 22 points, 6 assists and 5 steals. His fellow American import forward James Singleton (203-81, college: Murray St.) contributed with 20 points, 6 rebounds and 4 blocks for the winners. American forward Charles Gaines (201-81, college: S.Mississippi, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) answered with a double-double by scoring 24 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists and forward Liang Cai (203-92) added 14 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for Qingdao Double Star. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Qingdao Double Star's coach tested eleven players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Xinjiang Flying Tige maintains first place with 18-1 record. Qingdao Double Star lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the eleventh position with 12 games lost. They share it with Foshan and Shanghai. Xinjiang Flying Tige will play against Fujian SBS XunXin (#16) in Jinjiang in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Qingdao Double Star will play at home against Shandong Bulls (#8) in Jinan and hopes to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:Xinjiang: D.Quincy 22+4reb+6ast, S.James 20+6reb+1ast, Z.QingPeng 19+3reb+5ast, M.Bateer 10+9reb+4ast, C.Tal 9+3reb+1ast, M.WuLan 9+8rebQingdao DS: G.Charles 24+12reb+5ast, B.Dee 16+1reb+3ast, L.Guang 16+2reb, C.Liang 14+6reb+4ast, C.Kai 7+6reb+1ast, A.Zaid 4+9reb+1ast

Very expected game when 16th ranked Fujian SBS XunXin (5-15) was defeated on the road by sixth ranked Beijing Ducks (12-8) 93-85 on Friday. Fujian SBS XunXin trailed by 18 points after 3 quarters before a 24-14 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 85-93 at the end of the game. The best player for the winners was American power forward Randolph Morris (211-86, college: Kentucky) who had a double-double by scoring 31 points and 11 rebounds. Jordanian forward Zaid Abbaas (203-83) chipped in a double-double by scoring 22 points and 11 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was American swingman Andre Emmett (196-82, college: Texas Tech) who recorded 31 points and 5 rebounds and the other American import center Dwayne Jones (211-83, college: St.Joseph's) added 18 points and 15 rebounds respectively. Four Fujian SBS XunXin players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players saving starting five for next games. Beijing Ducks moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Jiangsu and Bayi. Loser Fujian SBS XunXin keeps the sixteenth position with 15 games lost. Beijing Ducks will face higher ranked Guandong Tigers (#3) in Dongguan in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Fujian SBS XunXin will play at home against the league's leader Xinjiang Flying Tige (#1) in Urumqi. Top scorers:Beijing: M.Randolph 31+11reb+3ast, A.Zaid 22+11reb+2ast, C.Lei 12+1reb+2ast, L.Hsueh-Lin 8+6reb+5ast, C.Joe 8+4reb+1ast, X.LiBin 5+3astFujian: E.Andre 31+5reb+2ast, J.Dwayne 18+15reb+1ast, L.Hang 11+5reb, G.SongLin 11+1ast, Y.Qin 6+1reb+2ast, G.Lei 4+2reb

Blazers assign Armon Johnson to D-League - by Eurobasket NewsThe Portland Trail Blazers have assigned rookie guard Armon Johnson (6'3''-G-89, college: Nevada) to the Idaho Stampede of the NBA Development League, it was announced today by General Manager Rich Cho.

Johnson, 21, is averaging 3.1 points, 1.1 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 8.1 minutes in 28 games this season with the Trail Blazers.

He becomes the 35th NBA player assigned to the D-League this season, and the second assigned by the Trail Blazers (Luke Babbitt, Dec. 8-18).

Portland selected Johnson in the second round (34th pick overall) of the 2010 NBA Draft out of the University of Nevada.

Courtesy of www.blazersedge.com

Friday's games - by Eurobasket NewsSpringfield A. - Tulsa 66ers 98-118Tulsa's NBA-Development team the 66ers won their 14th consecutive game Friday night beating the Springfield Armor (9-18) on the road 118-98 behind a game-high 37 points from guard Jerome Dyson (6'3''-G-87, college: Connecticut) and double-doubles from Cole Aldrich (6'11''-C-88, college: Kansas) and Latavious Williams inside the MassMutual Center. Aldrich posted 15 points and a game-high 12 rebounds and Williams notched 20 points and 10 boards. It marked the third and eighth double-doubles for Aldrich and Williams this season, respectively. Dyson's 37 points is the most scored by a Tulsa player this season. He shot 12-20 (.600) from the field, including 6-9 (.667) from beyond the arc. Also scoring in double figures for Tulsa was Robert Vaden with 15, including 5-of-9 from beyond the arc, and Garrett Williamson with 10. Tulsa, who led by as many as 25 in the game, used a big first half to jump out to a 69-53 halftime lead. That point total marked a season-high for most points in a half for the 66ers. Defensively, Tulsa forced 18 Springfield turnovers and picked up seven steals. The 66ers out rebounded the Armor by a 46-41 margin. Offensively, the 66ers recorded 25 assists and shot 14-27 (.519) from 3-point range. Tulsa continue its East Coast road trip this Sunday, Jan. 30, by traveling to Portland to take on the Maine Red Claws at 4 p.m. CT. *Courtesy of www.ktul.com

Maine RC - Erie Bay H. 109-113Blake Ahearn (6'2''-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Missouri St.) broke a 106-all tie on a 3-pointer with 48 seconds remaining, sending the Erie BayHawks to a 113-109 win over the Maine Red Claws on Friday night. Erie improved to 18-9 with the win before a crowd of 3,045 at the Portland Expo Center. It was the BayHawks' fifth victory in six games against Maine this season. Ahearn led all scorers with 29 points and drained his tie-breaking shot off an assist from Ivan Johnson (6'8''-F/C-84, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.), who scored a BayHawks' team-record 46 points in Erie's last visit to Portland. Johnson recorded 12 points on 4-of-7 shooting Friday night. Erie recovered from a 28-19 first-quarter deficit to take a 53-52 lead into halftime. The second quarter began with a 14-4 Erie run to bring the BayHawks back into the game, kicked off by a Tasheed Carr jumper 20 seconds into the quarter. Ahearn hit one 3-pointer and Mitchell added two jumpers and a layup in the Erie spurt. Newly acquired BayHawk Loren Stokes sent Erie into intermission with the lead on a driving layup with 25 seconds remaining. Stokes, a Buffalo native and Hofstra graduate, scored five points on 2-for-2 shooting in 8 minutes of action in his first game with Erie. Tasmin Mitchell added 25 points off the bench for the BayHawks, while Gannon grad Kyle Goldcamp started and scored 15 points. The BayHawks outrebounded the Red Claws 40-34 as Nate Linhart grabbed 11 rebounds while Goldcamp had nine. Avery Bradley, a former Texas star who recently joined Maine on assignment from the Boston Celtics, led the Red Claws (11-17) with 24 points on 9-of-15 shooting. The BayHawks take a break until Feb. 5, when they travel to Texas to take on the Austin Toros. *Courtesy of www.goerie.com

Texas L. - Utah F. 101-99The Texas Legends used a last-second layup from Antonio Daniels on Friday night to win their second straight game over the Utah Flash 101-99 at HP Court inside Dr Pepper Arena. With 3.5 seconds left in the game, the 12-year NBA veteran Daniels would become the hero. He would split the lane and nail a driving layup to break a 99-99 tie. With a chance to tie or win the game on the final possession, Andre Ingram missed a floater to preserve the victory for Texas. Texas held a three-point advantage heading into the second quarter. However, with 3:48 left in the second and the Legends up by two, Utah finished the half on a 14-5 run to take a seven-point lead into the break, 57-50. After scoring 18 points in the first half of Wednesday's game, Utah's Ronald DuPree (6'7''-F/G-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: LSU) once again dominated the opening half with 20 points. Matt Rogers had a strong first half for Texas with 15 points and six rebounds. After trailing 76-71 with 1:31 to go in the third quarter, Texas went on an 8-0 sprint to end the period on top by three. The Legends kept the pressure on in the fourth, by starting the period on a 5-0 run that put them up by eight. The Flash would crawl back into the game and tie it up at 97 on a Nkem Ojougboh (6'9''-C-87, agency: David Lee services, college: Northeastern) slam dunk with 1:22 remaining in the game. On the ensuing possession Sean Williams hit a layup to get Texas back up by two. Then with 8.4 second left, Brandon Costner got the rebound off an Orien Green missed 3-pointer and tipped it back home to tie it back up at 99, before Daniels put home the winner. Rogers had a huge night for Texas, as he tied a season-high with 23 points and had a season-high 14 rebounds. In just his third game with the Legends, Dominique Johnson made his presence felt with 18 points on 7-of-10 shooting. Dupree led the way for Utah with a season-high 31 points, while Ingram and Costner added 14 points each. *Courtesy of D-League

Idaho S. - Ft.Wayne MA 84-99Jermareo Davidson (6'10''-F-84, college: Alabama) had 19 points and 11 rebounds and Carlos Wheeler (6'8''-F/C-78, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Campbellsville) added 13 points and 11 rebounds, but the Stampede scored just 33 points in the second half - including 10 in the fourth quarter - of a 99-84 loss to the Fort Wayne Mad Ants at Qwest Arena on Friday night. The Stampede (9-17) had 24 turnovers, made just 4-of-20 three-pointers and sunk only 61.5 percent (16-of-26) of its free throws. Oliver Lafayette scored a game-high 31 points to lead the way for the Mad Ants (13-14). Marvin Phillips added 14 points and 10 rebounds off the bench as the Mad Ants overcame a 27-14 first half rebounding deficit and 55.3 percent shooting by the Stampede. The Stampede shot just 18.2 percent (2-of-11) in the fourth quarter; Fort Wayne held Idaho to 0-of-8 from the three-point line in the second half. Five Stampeders scored in double-figures, with Seth Tarver adding 15 and Cedric Jackson chipping in with 11 points. Lance Hurdle had 10 points off the bench. NBA assignee Armon Johnson, playing in his first game as a member of the Idaho Stampede, came off the bench to total four points, five rebounds and four assists. *Courtesy of www.kboi2.com

Reno Bighorns - Bakersfield J. 116-103Seven double-figure scorers and 44 first-quarter points pushed the Reno Bighorns to a 116-103 victory over the Bakersfield Jam Friday night in the Reno Events Center. The Bighorns (16-12) never trailed on the evening, taking an 11-point lead after the first period and a 13-point lead into intermission. Reno kept its foot on the pedal in the second half and put away the Jam (16-11) to snap a four-game losing skid. 'The most important thing was the 32 assists on 46 baskets,' said Bighorns Head Coach Eric Musselman. 'Great ball movement, extremely unselfish play tonight.' Patrick O'Bryant, who Reno acquired in a trade with Bakersfield earlier this season, scored 14 in the opening period on his way to 18 points on 8-of-9 shooting from the field. The former 2006 NBA lottery pick finished with three blocks, three assists and six boards. Anthony Richardson (6'7''-F-83, college: Florida St.) hit a pair of three pointers and fell just a point shy of his season high with 22 on the night. Marcus Landry (6'7''-F-85, college: Wisconsin) notched 20 points, and Jeremy Lin-playing on NBA assignment from the Golden State Warriors-added 10 points, five rebounds and five assists. Donald Sloan collected the game's lone double-double with 11 points and a career-high-tying 10 assists. The Bighorns shot 52.9 percent (46-of-87) from the floor and 40 percent (6-of-15) from beyond the arc Friday. 'I was really impressed that we shot a high percentage from three with a low number of shots,' Musselman said. 'We didn't force up shots, and I thought we did a really good job on the backboards, as well.' Jeremy Wise led the way for Bakersfield with 34 points on the strength of three three-pointers and a 10-of-11 night from the charity stripe. Derrick Byars added 21 points and seven assists. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Iowa E. - Rio Grande 138-119In a battle of two of the top teams in the NBA D-League, the Iowa Energy rolled up 138 points and snapped the Rio Grande Valley Vipers' winning streak at 10 with a 138-119 home decision on Friday. Iowa scored 41 points in the first quarter and had 75 by half time. The 75-62 lead at the break seemed solid. But, a third quarter push by the Vipers drew the locals within five points after 36 minutes. That was as close as the game would get as Iowa pulled away for the 19 point victory. Jeff Adrien (6'7''-F-86, agency: Priority Sports, college: Connecticut) was one of three Vipers to crack 20 points and led RGV scoring with 24. Connor Atchley (6'10''-F/C-85, agency: Impact Basketball, college: Texas) scored six points for the Vipers in his first game since being traded by Iowa to the Valley. Iowa is now 20-and-7 and the Vipers 17-and-8 in D-League play. The two teams play again in Des Moines on Saturday night. *Courtesy of www.krgv.com

EMKL Round 21 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket NewsThe most interesting game of round 21 in the EMKL was a home defeat of 7th ranked TTU/Kalev II (7-13) to sixth ranked Rapla (8-12) 101-93 in the game for the sixth place. The guests trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 61-49 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Rapla made 28-of-37 free shots (75.7 percent) during the game. 32 personal fouls committed by TTU/Kalev II helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Power forward Raido Ringmets (204-83) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 11 rebounds for the winners and guard Sven Kaldre (195-91) chipped in 27 points and 6 rebounds. The best for the losing side was forward Kiur Akenparg (190-88) with 23 points (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field). TTU/Kalev II's coach Indrek Reinbok rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Newly promoted Rapla maintains sixth place with 8-12 record. TTU/Kalev II at the other side keeps the seventh position with 13 games lost. Rapla will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. TTU/Kalev II will play at home against KK Parnu (#8) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. The game between Top Four teams took place in Rakvere. 4th placed host BC Rakvere (11-11) lost to first ranked TU/Rock (20-1) 90-80. The former international forward Asko Paade (206-84) nailed 19 points for the winning side and Rain Veideman accounted for 19 points and 4 assists. Forward Joosep Pokla (195-86) came up with 18 points and 5 rebounds for BC Rakvere in the defeat. TU/Rock have an impressive series of seventeen victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 20-1 record. BC Rakvere at the other side keeps the fourth position with 11 games lost. TU/Rock will play against TTU/Kalev (#3) in Tallinn in the next round, which may be the game of the day. BC Rakvere will have a break next round. Fifth ranked Valga/CKE (9-12) beat at home 9th ranked Voru KK (1-20) by 12 points 86-74, which is the biggest margin this round on Friday night. The best player for the winners was Ando Tagamets who had a double-double by scoring 11 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was Silver Kuuba who recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points and 11 rebounds. The victory was the third consecutive win for Valga/CKE. They maintain fifth place with 9-12 record. Voru KK lost their seventh game in a row. Newly promoted team stay dead last with 20 lost games. Valga/CKE will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Voru KK will play against the league's second-placed Kalev/Cramo (#2) in Tallinn.

Fifth ranked Valga/CKE (9-12) beat at home 9th ranked Voru KK (1-20) by 12 points 86-74, which is the biggest margin this round on Friday night. The hosts trailed by 5 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 10-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 86-74. Valga/CKE outrebounded Voru KK 41-30 including 19 on the offensive glass. The best player for the winners was the former international forward Ando Tagamets (200-79) who had a double-double by scoring 11 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists. American forward Anthony Brown (203-86, college: Oklahoma St.) chipped in 21 points and 6 rebounds. Five Valga/CKE players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Silver Kuuba (198-74) who recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points and 11 rebounds and American center Andrais Thornton (203-85, college: NW Missouri St.) added 18 points and 11 rebounds respectively. The victory was the third consecutive win for Valga/CKE. They maintain fifth place with 9-12 record. Voru KK lost their seventh game in a row. Newly promoted team stay dead last with 20 lost games. Valga/CKE will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Voru KK will play against the league's second-placed Kalev/Cramo (#2) in Tallinn. Top scorers:Valga/CKE: A.Brown 21+6reb+1ast, T.Oja 20+5reb+1ast, R.Petersonig 14+2reb+2ast, A.Tagamets 11+13reb+4ast, D.Winston 11+2reb+1ast, A.Vasar 6+6reb+1astVoru KK: S.Kuuba 20+11reb+1ast, A.Thornton 18+11reb+1ast, T.Kimask 11+2ast, T.Zupsman 9+3reb+2ast, M.Niklus 7+3reb+2ast, F.Parker 7

The game between Top Four teams took place in Rakvere. 4th placed host BC Rakvere (11-11) lost to first ranked TU/Rock (20-1) 90-80. BC Rakvere was ahead by 10 points at the halftime before a 52-32 second half run of TU/Rock. They also forced 20 BC Rakvere turnovers. The former international forward Asko Paade (206-84) nailed 19 points for the winning side and international guard Rain Veideman (192-91) accounted for 19 points and 4 assists. Forward Joosep Pokla (195-86) came up with 18 points and 5 rebounds and guard Sven Kaldre (195-91) added 18 points and 5 rebounds respectively for BC Rakvere in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. TU/Rock have an impressive series of seventeen victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 20-1 record. BC Rakvere at the other side keeps the fourth position with 11 games lost. TU/Rock will play against TTU/Kalev (#3) in Tallinn in the next round, which may be the game of the day. BC Rakvere will have a break next round. Top scorers:TU/Rock: R.Veideman 19+1reb+4ast, A.Paade 19+4reb+1ast, C.Eziukwu 14+7reb+1ast, V.Allingu 13+5reb, G.Tsintsadze 10+4ast, M.Doronin 8+6reb+1astRakvere: V.Viljar 18+5reb, J.Pokla 18+5reb+3ast, M.Hall 18+4reb+1ast, R.Anderson 12+3reb+1ast, B.McGee 8+5reb, R.Villers 3+1reb+1ast

The most interesting game of round 21 in the EMKL was a home defeat of 7th ranked TTU/Kalev II (7-13) to sixth ranked Rapla (8-12) 101-93 in the game for the sixth place. The guests trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 61-49 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Rapla made 28-of-37 free shots (75.7 percent) during the game. 32 personal fouls committed by TTU/Kalev II helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Power forward Raido Ringmets (204-83) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 11 rebounds for the winners and guard Sven Kaldre (195-91) chipped in 27 points and 6 rebounds. The best for the losing side was forward Kiur Akenparg (190-88) with 23 points (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) and American center Andrew Arnold (208-86, college: Lewis-Clark) produced a double-double by scoring 11 points and 13 rebounds. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. TTU/Kalev II's coach Indrek Reinbok rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Newly promoted Rapla maintains sixth place with 8-12 record. TTU/Kalev II at the other side keeps the seventh position with 13 games lost. Rapla will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. TTU/Kalev II will play at home against KK Parnu (#8) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Rapla: S.Kaldre 27+6reb, R.Ringmets 21+11reb+3ast, H.Erm 14+3reb, R.Laane 12+1reb, A.Antson 12+3reb, M.Parn 5+1rebTTU/Kalev II: K.Akenparg 23+3reb, M.Kurg 15, K.Keres 14+1reb, A.Arnold 11+13reb, M.Kaja 10+7reb, M.Paiste 6+3reb+2ast

Korisliiga Round 30: Joensuun Kataja beats KTP-Basket in the most crucial game of the week - by Eurobasket NewsAn exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Kotka. Third ranked Joensuun Kataja faced second-best KTP-Basket. Guests from Joensuu (20-10) defeated host KTP-Basket (22-8) 93-81. The guests trailed by 14 points at the halftime before their 56-30 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Joensuun Kataja shot 62.3 percent from the field and made 19-of-25 free shots (76.0 percent) during the game. Joensuun Kataja outrebounded KTP-Basket 35-20 including a 25-13 advantage in defensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was American swingman Jared Newson (195-84, college: Tennessee-Martin, agency: Court Side) who scored 26 points and 6 rebounds. The other American import power forward Darren Fells (201-86, agency: Court Side) chipped in 14 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was Canadian forward Sefton Barrett (196-83, college: Cent.Michigan, agency: Limelight Hoops) who recorded 25 points and 6 rebounds. KTP-Basket's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Joensuun Kataja have a solid three-game winning streak. Joensuun Kataja maintains third position with 20-10 record having six points less than leader Pyrinto. KTP-Basket lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the second place with eight games lost. Joensuun Kataja is looking forward to face Espoo Honka (#5) at home in the next round. KTP-Basket will have a break next round. Leader Tampereen Pyrinto delivered the twentieth fifth victory. This time they crushed 11th ranked LrNMKY (7-23) 103-75 in Lappeenranta. It was a good game for American forward Damon Williams (201-73, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo) who led his team to a victory with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Antwine Williams contributed with 18 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Swingman Viljami Vanjoki (194-86) replied with 21 points for LrNMKY. Tampereen Pyrinto (25-6) have an impressive 11-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position. LrNMKY lost third consecutive game. They keep the eleventh place with 23 games lost. Tampereen Pyrinto will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. LrNMKY will play on the road against Kauhajoen Karhu (#9) in Kauhajoki and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Leader Tampereen Pyrinto recorded the twentieth fifth victory on Saturday night. This time they beat 5th ranked Espoo Honka (17-12) 91-77. The game was dominated by American players. Damon Williams had a double-double by scoring 31 points and 16 rebounds (went 9 for 9 at the free throw line !!!) to lead the charge for the winners. The best for the losing side was Corey Belser with 21 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Tampereen Pyrinto (25-6) have an impressive 11-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position. Espoo Honka at the other side keeps the fifth place with 12 games lost. Tampereen Pyrinto will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Espoo Honka will play against Joensuun Kataja (#3) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Twelfth-ranked Porvoon Tarmo (4-26) made lots of trouble for eighth ranked Namika Lahti (13-16). The visitors from Lahti managed to secure only two-point victory 80-78. However their fans expected much easier game. The game was also dominated by American players. Ryan Ayers notched 20 points to lead the effort. Namika Lahti have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain eighth position with 13-16 record. Porvoon Tarmo lost seventh consecutive game. Newly promoted Porvoon Tarmo stay dead last with 26 lost games. Namika Lahti's next round opponent will be higher ranked Kouvot (#6) in Kouvola and it may be quite challenging game. Porvoon Tarmo will play on the road against Torpan Pojat (#7) in Helsinki. We should mention about the upset which took place in Salon, where higher ranked Kouvot (15-15) lost to tenth ranked Salon Vilpas (11-19) in a road game 71-77 on Sunday. The best player for the winners was Nick Okorie who scored 21 points. Salon Vilpas maintains tenth position with 11-19 record. Loser Kouvot keeps the sixth place with 15 games lost. Salon Vilpas will have a break next round.

In the last game of round 30 ToPo was crushed by Korihait in Uusikaupunki 98-75.

There was no surprise in Uusikaupunki where 7th ranked Torpan Pojat (14-16) was crushed by fourth ranked UU-Korihait (19-11) 98-75 on Saturday. UU-Korihait dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to Torpan Pojat's 36. UU-Korihait forced 20 Torpan Pojat turnovers and outrebounded them 38-24 including 26 on the defensive glass. American players dominated the game. The best player for the winners was swingman Nigel Moore (195-81, college: Alabama A&M) who had a double-double by scoring 23 points, 11 rebounds, 8 assists and 4 steals. Forward James Reaves (203-82, college: Niagara) chipped in 24 points and 8 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was guard Frank Richards (188-82, college: Kansas St.) who recorded 19 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists and forward LaVell Blanchard (201-81, college: Michigan, agency: Beo Basket) added 13 points and 9 rebounds respectively. Five UU-Korihait and four Torpan Pojat players scored in double figures. Torpan Pojat's coach gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win. UU-Korihait maintains fourth position with 19-11 record. Loser Torpan Pojat keeps the seventh place with 16 games lost. UU-Korihait will have a break next round. Torpan Pojat will play at home against Porvoon Tarmo (#12). Top scorers:Korihait: J.Reaves 24+8reb, N.Moore 23+11reb+8ast, P.Heinonen 19+6reb+2ast, B.Sarcevic 13+1reb+2ast, L.Wright 12+7reb+2ast, M.Jalonen 5+1reb+5astToPo: F.Richards 19+5reb+4ast, L.Blanchard 13+9reb, H.Mottola 12+3reb, T.Heinonen 10+1reb, M.Koivisto 8+2ast, T.Laitinen 8+2reb

Leader Tampereen Pyrinto delivered the twentieth fifth victory. This time they crushed 11th ranked LrNMKY (7-23) 103-75 in Lappeenranta. LrNMKY was tied at the half but could not keep up in last two quarters eventually losing the game. Tampereen Pyrinto dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to LrNMKY's 28. LrNMKY was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a good game for American forward Damon Williams (201-73, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo) who led his team to a victory with 20 points and 9 rebounds. The other American import forward Antwine Williams (192-75, college: N.Colorado, agency: Prossin Sports Management) contributed with 18 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Five Tampereen Pyrinto players scored in double figures. Swingman Viljami Vanjoki (194-86) replied with 21 points and American forward HL Coleman (202-74, college: Wyoming) added 9 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for LrNMKY. Tampereen Pyrinto (25-6) have an impressive 11-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position. LrNMKY lost third consecutive game. They keep the eleventh place with 23 games lost. Tampereen Pyrinto will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. LrNMKY will play on the road against Kauhajoen Karhu (#9) in Kauhajoki and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Pyrinto: D.Williams 20+9reb+2ast, A.Williams 18+7reb+1ast, J.Harjula 17+1reb, A.Lehto 16+2reb+2ast, A.Nikkila 14+7reb+1ast, J.Niemi 9+2rebLrNMKY: V.Vanjoki 21+4reb+1ast, J.Lewis 12+4reb+1ast, T.Kulha 11+1reb+2ast, H.Coleman 9+9reb+1ast, M.Moore 7+5reb+6ast, H.Valimaa 7+3reb+1ast

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Kotka. Third ranked Joensuun Kataja faced second-best KTP-Basket. Guests from Joensuu (20-10) defeated host KTP-Basket (22-8) 93-81. The guests trailed by 14 points at the halftime before their 56-30 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Joensuun Kataja shot 62.3 percent from the field and made 19-of-25 free shots (76.0 percent) during the game. Joensuun Kataja outrebounded KTP-Basket 35-20 including a 25-13 advantage in defensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was American swingman Jared Newson (195-84, college: Tennessee-Martin, agency: Court Side) who scored 26 points and 6 rebounds. The other American import power forward Darren Fells (201-86, agency: Court Side) chipped in 14 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Joensuun Kataja players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was Canadian forward Sefton Barrett (196-83, college: Cent.Michigan, agency: Limelight Hoops) who recorded 25 points and 6 rebounds and forward Milos Dobras (197-87) added 14 points respectively. KTP-Basket's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Joensuun Kataja have a solid three-game winning streak. Joensuun Kataja maintains third position with 20-10 record having six points less than leader Pyrinto. KTP-Basket lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the second place with eight games lost. Joensuun Kataja is looking forward to face Espoo Honka (#5) at home in the next round. KTP-Basket will have a break next round. Top scorers:Kataja: J.Newson 26+6reb+1ast, J.Conley 16+5reb+2ast, A.Kanervo 15+4reb+1ast, D.Fells 14+9reb+4ast, S.Lehtoranta 9+9reb+3ast, P.Virtanen 7+2astKTP: S.Barrett 25+6reb, M.Dobras 14+4reb, M.Holme 13+2reb+1ast, J.Fields 9+2reb+3ast, J.Ivey 9+2ast, R.Juvonen 3+1ast

Leader Tampereen Pyrinto recorded the twentieth fifth victory on Saturday night. This time they beat 5th ranked Espoo Honka (17-12) 91-77. The game was mostly controlled by Tampereen Pyrinto. Espoo Honka managed to win second period 21-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Tampereen Pyrinto made 20-of-22 free shots (90.9 percent) during the game. The game was dominated by American players. Forward Damon Williams (201-73, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo) had a double-double by scoring 31 points and 16 rebounds (went 9 for 9 at the free throw line !!!) to lead the charge for the winners and forward Antwine Williams (192-75, college: N.Colorado, agency: Prossin Sports Management) chipped in 23 points during the contest. The best for the losing side was forward Corey Belser (200-82, college: San Diego) with 21 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists and center John Williamson (198-86, college: Cincinnati) scored 21 points and 8 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Tampereen Pyrinto (25-6) have an impressive 11-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position. Espoo Honka at the other side keeps the fifth place with 12 games lost. Tampereen Pyrinto will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Espoo Honka will play against Joensuun Kataja (#3) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Pyrinto: D.Williams 31+16reb+2ast, A.Williams 23+4reb+1ast, A.Nikkila 12+5reb+1ast, K.Lowe 10+1reb+2ast, A.Lehto 7+5ast, J.Niemi 5+2reb+1astHonka: C.Belser 21+7reb+4ast, J.Williamson 21+8reb+3ast, T.Iisalo 12+1ast, C.Lindbom 12+4reb, V.Makalainen 5+1reb+3ast, J.Suotamo 4+1reb

We should mention about the upset which took place in Salon, where higher ranked Kouvot (15-15) lost to tenth ranked Salon Vilpas (11-19) in a road game 71-77 on Sunday. The hosts trailed by 2 points after three quarters before their 24-16 charge, which allowed them to win the game. The best player for the winners was Nigerian guard Nick Okorie (185-88, college: Texas Tech) who scored 21 points. Forward Matti Nuutinen (200-90) chipped in 18 points and 6 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was American guard Josh Gonner (188-82, college: S.Carolina) who recorded 19 points and the former international forward Ville Kaunisto (204-82) added 10 points and 10 rebounds respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Salon Vilpas maintains tenth position with 11-19 record. Loser Kouvot keeps the sixth place with 15 games lost. Salon Vilpas will have a break next round. Top scorers:Salon Vilpas: N.Okorie 21+3reb+2ast, M.Nuutinen 18+6reb, R.Ahonen 15+1reb+1ast, N.Doaks 12+10reb+2ast, S.Kaaresvirta 6+1reb+1ast, J.Kataja 5+8reb+7astKouvot: J.Gonner 19+4reb+1ast, B.Walker 18+2reb+1ast, A.Nikkarinen 11+6reb+1ast, V.Kaunisto 10+10reb+1ast, D.Vinson 7+8reb+1ast, L.Toivonen 3+4reb

Giorgi Shermadini season high game against Regal Barcelona - by Geo Basket In another thriller in Ljubljana, Regal FC Barcelona survived Union Olimpija by a single point, 67-68. The guests managed to forge a 14-point lead, but Union Olimpija reacted from the defense and managed to even lead by as many as 4 points.Giorgi Shermadini (216-C-89) led his Union Olimpija by 14 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal and 1 block and was ranked as #1 in his team (21 Rkg). It has to be mentioned that Shermadini's numbers in points and rankings appeared bigger than Barcelona's big men like Fran Vazquez (209-C-83) 2, Terence Morris (207-F-79), Kosta Perovic (217-C-85) 5 and Boniface Ndong (213-C-77) all together. Next game will be held in the capital of Israel for Slovenians on 3rd of February against Maccabi Tel-Aviv.

John Bynum (TBB Trier) Pregame Thoughts To 8 Time BEKO BBL Champion Alba Berlin Game January 30th - by Miles Schmidt-ScheuberJohn Bynum (191-G-78, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Metro St.) is a 32 year old 191 cm guard from Visalia California that is playing his first season with TBB Trier. He is a good fighter, fast and good in offensive playing. He is great athlete who can shoot the ball with consistency from 3 and finish with authority on the break. He is a tremendous defender on the ball. He played college basketball at College of the Sequoias Junior College:from 1996-1998 and then transferred to Metropolitan St. (NCAA2): and played there from 1998-2000. He started his professional basketball career in 2001 in the Uk for the Solent Stars (United Kingdom-NBLConf): 31 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assist. In 2002-2003, came his first tour of duty in Germany for BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-Regionalliga): 24.7ppg, 9.2rpg, 6.7apg, 3.5spg. In 2003-2004, he played for the Ulriken Eagles (Norway-BNLO): Regular Season: 14 games: 20,1ppg, 8,1rpg, 2,5apg, 2,9spg, 0,4bpg.In 2004-2005, he was back in Germany playing for BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-2.Bundesliga): 30 games: Score-5 (26.0ppg), 7.7rpg, Ast-4 (5.4apg), 1.7spg, 2FGP: 55.5%, 3FGP: 33.3%, FT: 63.6%. In 2005-2006, he played for InterCollege Etha Engomis (Cyprus-A1): only pre-season, then joined COOCOON Baskets Weiden (Germany-2.Bundesliga, starting five): 8 games: 15.6ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.0apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 51%, left in Jan.'06 and later that month signed at Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 21 games: 7.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.8apg, 2FGP: 56.5%. In 2006-2007, he played for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 31 games: 5.7ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.2apg, 2FGP: 43.1%, 3FGP: 25.0%, FT: 55.9%. In 2007-2008, he played for USC Heidelberg (Germany-ProA, starting five): 14 games: 14.4ppg, 4.4rpg, Assists-5 (4.6apg), 2.3spg, 2FGP: 54%, 3FGP: 27.3%, FT: 58.5%, left in Jan.'08 due to shoulder injury, in Feb.'08 moved to Digibu Baskets Paderborn (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 13 games: 6.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.4apg, 2FGP: 51.8%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 70.0%. Last season, he played in the PRO A for Proveo Merlins Crailsheim (Germany-ProA, starting five): 27 games: 16.9ppg, 7.1rpg, Assists-3 (5.4apg), 1.1spg, FGP: 51.8%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 62.8%. He spoke with eurobasket before the game against Alba Berlin

How have you been able to come down from the incredible Allstar day weekend?

I was over it right after the last round of the dunk contest. It was good to take part of but now my focus is winning games and making the playoffs with Trier.

How strange will it be playing a BEKO BBL game again after the last win in Tuebingen 15 days ago? How tough will it be playing against top team Alba Berlin after such a long lay off?

Any game is tough but it just so happens that it is against Berlin. We havent played in 15 days like you said, and we will have to be on top of our game on Sunday but I think we will be ready, Berlin is a team that you have to be up for.

What will TBB Trier have to do better on offense in the second half of the season?

I just think we have to continue to do what were doing but we need guys to step up not just the starters. We need to be more consistent from the players that start and the players that come off the bench as well. It has to be a collective effort and hopefully it will change in the 2nd half of the season.

Which TBB Trier player was the most improved for you in the first half of the season?

I think Samy Picard or Maik Zairbes improved the most so far. I think with Maik it is just confidence and he is beginning to believe in his abilities and is feeling comfortable on the court. As for Samy he takes advantage of his playing time and is giving us good minutes when he is on the court.

What was your impression of Alba Belrin saying goodbye to Luka Pavicevic? Do you think the team will play better right away with the new coach?

I was shocked but Berlin has their reasons, but at the same time Berlin is a team and it just wasnt their coach that made them a great team, the players are still there and they will still be a competitive team and be at the top of the league.

What is your memory of the 69-57 loss in Berlin last November?

I dont really remember much about the game, but I know we competed in the game and played them pretty strongly. I am looking forward to the weekend and we will compete like we did last time.

Keeping Alba Berlin under 70 points will surely be a goal for TBB trier, but will it be able to score more than 70 points against Alba Berlin?

Well hopefully we can keep them under 70 points but like you said we have to score some points as well. I think if we keep them under 70, I like our chances but we have to find a way to put some points up against them because they are a very solid defensive team as well.

Do you think the fans will get an exciting Superbowl between the Packers and Steelers or more a one sided affair?

I think it will be a good superbowl, I would not have picked this superbowl at the beginning of the season but I am looking forward to a good game. I hope the Steelers come out on top but honestly i dont care who wins because my redskins arent in.

Thanks John for the chat.

Ronald Ross (MBC Wolves) Pregame Thoughts To Phoenix Hagen game January 30th - by Miles Schmidt-ScheuberRonald Ross (188-G-83, agency: World Sport Agency, college: Texas Tech) is a 27 year old 188cm guard playing his first season for MBC. He is originally from Hobbs New Mexico and played at Texas Tech from 2001-2005. In his senior year, he averaged 17.5ppg, 5.5rpg, 3.0apg, 2.6spg, FGP: 51.9%, 3Pts: 43% and reached the NCA Sweet 16. He started his professional career with Univer Castelletto Ticino (Italy-Lega2) and then moved on to the CBA in 2006-2007 for Butte Daredevils playing 48 games averaging 15.2ppg, 4.2rpg, 3.8apg, Steals-2 (2.4spg), FGP: 49%, 3PT: 29.4%, FT: 74.2% and in 2007 for the Albany Patroons (USBL, starting five) playing 21 games: Score-3 (17.4ppg), 3.0rpg, Assists-4 (4.0apg), Steals-1 (2.5spg), FGP: 47.6%, 3FGP: 41.4%, FT: 84.2%. In 2007-2008, he played for ENBW Ludwigsburg playing 34 games and averaging 14.4ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.3apg, Steals-2 (1.7spg), 2FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 29.1%, FT: 77.9% reaching the cup final in 2008. In 2008-2009 he started in Israel before moving on to the Artland Dragons playing 12 games and averaging 15.8ppg, 3.3rpg, 4.0apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 59.0%, 3PT: 57.1%, FT: 70.0%. Last season for the Artland Dragons, he played 12 games: 10.8ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 18.8%, FT: 83.0%; German League: 32 games: 11.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 27.1%, FT: 75.7%. He spoke to eurobasket before the game against Phoenix Hagen January 30th.

You spent some time in Poland over the Allstar break. How did you like it there and what was your nicest experience away from the court?

Yeah, I was in Poland and got to see my sister play for the first time in her professional career. It was definitely a great experience. The best part about being away from the court though was being away from the court. I think it was good for us all mentally and physically, but I love my job so I'm glad to get back go back to work.

How sad are you that Michael Jordan left? How will MBC compensate this loss?

Mike is a good guy and it was disappointing to see him go, but I think in the end the club and himself made a decision that was satisfying for both them.

What will MBC have to do better in the second half to stay in the BEKO BBL?

We're going to fine. The vibe of our team is really good and everybody is working hard from the coaching staff to the players and we've recently got some of our injured players back. I definitely think we'll have a better second half than the first.

Who has been the most improved MBC player since you came on board?

That's a good question. I really can't say right now considering the addition of new players and the adjustment of roles. Ask me again later because it would be hard to just choose one now.

Phoenix Hagen like to play quick and can put up a lot of points. What will be key in winning in Hagen?

We have to slow them down if we want a chance to win. It's going to take a team effort to do it and I think were more than capable doing that.

How much are you looking forward to playing against Mark Dorris. How do you stop him best?

It will be good to stop him from getting a rhythm early, but they have lot of weapons outside of just him so like I side its going to have to be a true team effort on the defensive end.

You have been very consistent scoring for MBC since your arrival. Do you think that the club might be a bit too dependent on you for scoring? Is this something that might hurt the club in the second half when the games get tougher?

No, I don't think the team is too dependent on my scoring. We have players that our capable of scoring and making plays as well. I was just fortunate to find my groove early. I don't look at my scoring like its larger than the team. We have some players that have already proved what they are capable doing. I don't feel the focal point of our offense.

Will Michael Jordan get Giessen on a winning streak the way he did Phoenix Hagen last year as he came on board?

We'll see, but I think he'll definitely only help nonetheless. He'll have a great chance to start it this weekend.

Ghana's Reggie Agbeko - by Charis BXAt 6-feet, 7-inches, St. Joes junior Reggie Agbeko stood out immediately as the tallest player to step on the hardwood floor in the Lions Den on Friday night.

St. Joes junior center Reggie Agbeko goes up for two of his 16 points in the Marauders 60-43 victory over Lockport at the 2010 Rotary Club of Lockport Tip-Off Basketball Tournament at LHS. Among those defending on the play for the Lions are Shaun Allen, left, and Andrew Bailey, right.

But it was, by his own account, one of the first times hes ever played basketball on such a surface.

Just three months into his first stay in the United States, St. Joes newest boys basketball recruit from the Ashanti Region of Ghana took notice as a potential Division I basketball player.

The mild-mannered Agbeko was dominant at times, canning eight third quarter points as part of a decisive 17-6 run, sparking St. Joes past Lockport, 60-43, in the 2010 Lockport Rotary Club Tip-Off Tournament at LHS.

Its one my first times on a wooden floor. It was tricky getting used to, said Agbeko, who picked up the sport on his hometown streets just five years ago.

The streets, he said, is where hes used to playing his favorite sport.

I tripped a little bit, but just tried to do the best that I can, Agbeko said. I want to play at the highest level of basketball someday the NBA. Thats my dream.

Agbekos best was pretty good for any high school junior with a similar background. He finished with a team-high 16 points and added eight rebounds for head coach Mark Simons Marauders (1-0).

Due to winter weather, the Rotary tourney was cut down to just one game. Two of the invited teams from Buffalo could not attend. As a result, there will be no additional games played today.

Trailing 6-0 at the start, the Lions went to the outside with three-pointers from Shaun Smiley Allen and Larry Carson to get back into it. A gigundous Agbeko dunk had the Marauders up 8-3, but Andrew Bailey drove down the lane for two, then Agbeko earned his second quick foul and was taken out of the game until the third quarter.

A late bucket by senior Keith Louie gave the Maurauders a 17-15 lead after one.

Carson drained his third tre in the second quarter as the Lions out-scored St. Joes 15-13 to tie the game at halftime, 30-30.

From there it was all downhill offensively for the Lions (0-1), who were out-scored 30-13 in the second half.

Hamar land Devin Sweetney - by Eurobasket NewsHamar added depth to their backcourt. They have agreed on terms of contract with Devin Sweetney (198-G/F-87, agency: Strategic Sports, college: St.Francis, PA). The 23-year-old guard just graduated from Saint Francis University in 2010. He tallied 16.9 points, 7.4 boards, 2.1 assists and 1.2 steals per game for the Red Flash in his senior season. He was named into All-NEC 1st Team. Devin Sweetney also made into NABC Division I All-District 18 2nd Team. Sweetney was also Saint Francis MVP in 2008/09 season. The guard was drafted by the Tulsa 66ers but spent only preseason with the D-League team. Devin Sweetney has already debuted for Hamar. He scored 24 points, grabbed 7 rebounds and issued 2 assists in a 77:94 loss to Keflavik.

Express L. Round 15: Leader Snaefell loses to KFI - by Eurobasket NewsTop ranked Snaefell (12-3) recorded its third loss in Reykjavik on Friday night. Visitors were defeated by twelfth ranked KFI (3-12) 89-76. The game was mostly controlled by KFI. Snaefell managed to win second period 26-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. KFI forced 19 Snaefell turnovers. The best player for the winners was American guard Craig Schoen (178-83, college: Georgetown, KY) who scored 31 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists (went 9 for 9 at the free throw line !!!). British guard Carl Josey (196-86, college: VMI) chipped in 17 points and 5 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Jon Olafur Jonsson (199-81) who recorded a double-double by scoring 23 points and 11 rebounds. Snaefell's coach Ingi Thor Steinthorsson rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Newly promoted KFI maintains twelfth place with 3-12 record. Defending champion Snaefell still keeps top position with three games lost. They share it with Grindavik. KFI are looking forward to face higher ranked Stjarnan (#7) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Snaefell will play against Tindastoll (#6) in Sauoarkrokur and is hoping to win this game. Very important is a home loss of second ranked Grindavik (12-3) against sixth ranked Haukar (7-8) on Thursday night. Host Grindavik was crushed by Haukar in Grindavik 82-63. It ended at the same time the six-game winning streak of Grindavik. It was a good game for Dutch-American forward Gerald Robinson (204-84, college: Tennessee-Martin, agency: Court Side) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 23 rebounds. Semaj Inge contributed with 19 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 7 steals for the winners. American-Italian power forward Ryan Pettinella (206-84, college: Cincinnati) answered with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 17 rebounds for Grindavik. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Haukar moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Tindastoll and Stjarnan. Grindavik at the other side still keeps top position with three games lost. They share it with Snaefell. Haukar will play against Fjolnir (#8) at home in the next round. Grindavik will play against IR (#9) in Reykjavik and hopes to get back on the winning track. The game in Fjolnir was also quite interesting. Fourth ranked KR (11-4) played at the court of 8th ranked Fjolnir (5-10). KR managed to secure a 8-point victory 101-93 on Friday. It was a great evening for Pavel Ermolinskij who led his team to a victory scoring 23 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. The best for the losing side was Brandon Springer with 32 points and 7 rebounds. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. KR have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Keflavik. Loser Fjolnir keeps the eighth position with ten games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. KR will meet at home Keflavik (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Fjolnir will play against Haukar (#5) in Hafnarfjordur and hope to secure a win. We should mention about the upset which took place in Njardvik, where higher ranked Stjarnan (7-8) was outleveled in a road game by eleventh ranked Njardvik (5-10) 89-68. It was an exceptional evening for Melzie Jonathan Moore who led the winners and scored 23 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Njardvik's coach Sigurour Ingimundarson felt very confident that he used entire bench saving starting five for next games. Njardvik moved-up to eighth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Stjarnan at the other side keeps the fifth position with eight games lost. Njardvik's next round opponent will be Hamar (#10) on the road. Stjarnan will play against KFI (#12) in Reykjavik.

In the last two games of round 15 Hamar was defeated by Keflavik in a road game 94-77. Tindastoll beat IR at home 78-69. The best stats of 15th round was 29 points, 14 rebounds and 5 assists by Thomas Sanders of Keflavik.

There was no surprise when 9th ranked Hamar (5-10) was defeated on the road by third ranked Keflavik (11-4) 94-77. The game was mostly controlled by Keflavik. Hamar was better in third quarter 23-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 26 assists. It was an exceptional evening for American guard Thomas Sanders (191-85, college: Gardner-Webb, agency: Duran International) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 29 points, 14 rebounds and 5 assists. The former international guard Axel Vilhjalmsson (188-88) accounted for 22 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists for the winning side. Four Keflavik players scored in double figures. The former international center Ragnar Nathanaelsson (218-91) came up with a double-double by scoring 13 points, 18 rebounds and 4 blocks and American guard Marcus Walker (186-86, college: Colorado St.) added 24 points and 7 rebounds respectively for Hamar in the defeat. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Keflavik have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain third place with 11-4 record behind leader Snaefell, which they share with KR. Hamar lost seventh consecutive game. They dropped to the eighth position with ten games lost. Keflavik's next round opponent will be KR (#4) in Reykjavik. Hamar will play at home against Njardvik (#11) in Njardvik. Top scorers:Keflavik: T.Sanders 29+14reb+5ast, A.Vilhjalmsson 22+6reb+5ast, G.Aorsteinsson 15+8reb+4ast, L.Johannsson 11+5reb+1ast, M.Gunnarsson 6+5reb+5ast, G.Stefansson 5+2reb+1astHamar: D.Antonio Sweetney 24+7reb+2ast, R.Nathanaelsson 13+18reb+2ast, K.Karason 10+1reb, S.Thorvaldsson 9+6reb+2ast, E.Arnarson 8+2reb+2ast, S.Palsson 7+10reb+1ast

The game in Fjolnir was also quite interesting. Fourth ranked KR (11-4) played at the court of 8th ranked Fjolnir (5-10). KR managed to secure a 8-point victory 101-93 on Friday. Fjolnir trailed by 17 points after 3 quarters before a 22-13 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 93-101 at the end of the game. KR made 28-of-34 free shots (82.4 percent) during the game. KR had a 30-19 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great evening for the former international swingman Pavel Ermolinskij (202-87) who led his team to a victory scoring 23 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. American guard Marcus Walker (186-86, college: Colorado St.) helped adding 24 points and 6 rebounds. The best for the losing side was American forward Brandon Springer (196, college: Cumberland) with 32 points and 7 rebounds and the former international guard Aegir Steinarsson (182-91) scored 9 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. KR have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Keflavik. Loser Fjolnir keeps the eighth position with ten games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. KR will meet at home Keflavik (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Fjolnir will play against Haukar (#5) in Hafnarfjordur and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:KR: M.Walker 24+6reb+3ast, P.Ermolinskij 23+7reb+6ast, F.Magnusson 16+11reb, H.Magnusson 13+5reb+2ast, B.Bjoernsson 8+6reb+1ast, A.Angantynsson 7Fjolnir: B.Springer 32+7reb, A.Guamundsson 11+3reb+1ast, J.Sverrisson 11+5reb+2ast, I.Hafsteinsson 11+4reb+2ast, A.Steinarsson 9+7reb+6ast, T.Tomasson 6+3reb+2ast

The game between closely ranked teams ended with seventh ranked Tindastoll's (7-8) home victory over 8th ranked IR (5-10) 78-69. The hosts were ahead by 2 points but lost the second period ending it with a 3-point deficit before their 26-14 run, which allowed them to win the game. Tindastoll forced 22 IR turnovers and outrebounded them 39-28 including 17 on the offensive glass. It was an exceptional evening for American forward Hayward Fain (196, college: St.Augustine, agency: Strategic Sports) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 23 points, 10 rebounds and 4 blocks. Serbian center Dragoljub Kitanovic (203-85) accounted for 18 points and 7 rebounds for the winning side. American forward Kelly Biedler (196-88, college: Mt.St.Mary's) came up with 14 points and 9 rebounds and Serbian-Canadian forward Nemanja Sovic (198-77, college: Pfeiffer) added 11 points and 5 rebounds respectively for IR in the defeat. Five IR players scored in double figures. Tindastoll moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Haukar and Stjarnan. IR at the other side keeps the eighth position with ten games lost. Tindastoll's next round opponent will be league's leader Snaefell in Stykkisholmur and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. IR will play at home against the league's second-placed Grindavik (#2). Top scorers:Tindastoll: H.Fain 23+10reb+2ast, S.Cunningham 20+2reb+3ast, D.Kitanovic 18+7reb+3ast, F.Hreinsson 8+1reb+2ast, H.Viggosson 7+16reb+4ast, H.Margeirsson 2+1reb+1astIR: K.Biedler 14+9reb+3ast, J.Bartolotta 13+2reb, N.Sovic 11+5reb+1ast, H.Friariksson 10+6reb+1ast, E.Onundarson 10+2reb+3ast, N.Dungal 7+2reb+2ast

We should mention about the upset which took place in Njardvik, where higher ranked Stjarnan (7-8) was outleveled in a road game by eleventh ranked Njardvik (5-10) 89-68. The game was mostly controlled by Njardvik. Stjarnan was better in fourth quarter 21-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. 26 personal fouls committed by Stjarnan helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was an exceptional evening for who led the winners and scored 23 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. accounted for 18 points and 5 assists for the winning side. Njardvik's coach Sigurour Ingimundarson felt very confident that he used entire bench saving starting five for next games. FYR Macedonian forward Jovan Zdravevski (197-80) came up with a double-double by scoring 11 points and 10 rebounds and American guard Justin Shouse (180-81, college: Mercyhurst) added 16 points respectively for Stjarnan in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Njardvik moved-up to eighth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Stjarnan at the other side keeps the fifth position with eight games lost. Njardvik's next round opponent will be Hamar (#10) on the road. Stjarnan will play against KFI (#12) in Reykjavik. Top scorers:Njardvik: M.Jonathan Moore 23+5reb+4ast, C.Smith 20+3reb+1ast, N.Tomasevic 18+4reb+5ast, J.Alafsson 13+6reb+7ast, P.Kristinsson 4+1reb, R.Erlingsson 3+3reb+1astStjarnan: J.Shouse 16+3reb+3ast, F.Helgason 11+6reb, J.Zdravevski 11+10reb+1ast, R.Lindmets 10+7reb+4ast, D.Guamundsson 9+1reb+2ast, A.Ingvason 5+1reb+3ast

Very important is a home loss of second ranked Grindavik (12-3) against sixth ranked Haukar (7-8) on Thursday night. Host Grindavik was crushed by Haukar in Grindavik 82-63. It ended at the same time the six-game winning streak of Grindavik. The game without a history. Haukar led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They outrebounded Grindavik 58-45 including a 23-11 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a good game for Dutch-American forward Gerald Robinson (204-84, college: Tennessee-Martin, agency: Court Side) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 23 rebounds. American guard Semaj Inge (193-87, college: Temple) contributed with 19 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 7 steals for the winners. Four Haukar players scored in double figures. American-Italian power forward Ryan Pettinella (206-84, college: Cincinnati) answered with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 17 rebounds and the former international swingman Pall Axel Vilbergsson (197-78) added 20 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for Grindavik. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Haukar moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Tindastoll and Stjarnan. Grindavik at the other side still keeps top position with three games lost. They share it with Snaefell. Haukar will play against Fjolnir (#8) at home in the next round. Grindavik will play against IR (#9) in Reykjavik and hopes to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:Haukar: G.Robinson 20+23reb+1ast, S.Inge 19+8reb+5ast, H.Askarsson 11+5reb, S.Sveinsson 10+6reb+2ast, E.Barja 9+11reb+4ast, O.Siguraarson 6+2reb+1astGrindavik: P.Axel Vilbergsson 20+6reb+4ast, R.Pettinella 16+17reb+1ast, A.Alafsson 10+3reb+8ast, G.Eyjolfsson 8+2reb+5ast, A.Savarsson 5+10reb, A.Alafsson 4+5reb

Top ranked Snaefell (12-3) recorded its third loss in Reykjavik on Friday night. Visitors were defeated by twelfth ranked KFI (3-12) 89-76. The game was mostly controlled by KFI. Snaefell managed to win second period 26-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. KFI forced 19 Snaefell turnovers. The best player for the winners was American guard Craig Schoen (178-83, college: Georgetown, KY) who scored 31 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists (went 9 for 9 at the free throw line !!!). British guard Carl Josey (196-86, college: VMI) chipped in 17 points and 5 rebounds. Josey is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Jon Olafur Jonsson (199-81) who recorded a double-double by scoring 23 points and 11 rebounds and American guard Sean Burton (175-86, college: Ithaca) added 11 points and 6 assists respectively. Snaefell's coach Ingi Thor Steinthorsson rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Newly promoted KFI maintains twelfth place with 3-12 record. Defending champion Snaefell still keeps top position with three games lost. They share it with Grindavik. KFI are looking forward to face higher ranked Stjarnan (#7) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Snaefell will play against Tindastoll (#6) in Sauoarkrokur and is hoping to win this game. Top scorers:KFI: C.Schoen 31+8reb+7ast, C.Josey 17+5reb+2ast, M.Milicevic 14+6reb, R.McNutt 8+5reb+1ast, D.Milosevic 7+4reb+1ast, P.Ilievski 6+1rebSnaefell: J.Olafur Jonsson 23+11reb+1ast, S.Burton 11+1reb+6ast, E.Johannsson 11+4reb+1ast, A.Hreinsson 9+3reb+1ast, P.Sigurgeirsson 9+8reb, S.Daviasson 6+3reb

Baeringson triple/double - by Siggi HjorleifssonHlynur Hlynur Baeringsson (200-F/C-82) had triple/double in Sundsvall Dragons last game in Swedish top league when Dragons beat Boras Basket 88-81Hlynur Baeringsson (200-F/C-82) scored 11 points, grab 15 rebounds and dished out 10 assist. Jakob Sigurdarson (192-G-82, college: Birmingham Souther) also had a good game in the win with 14 points 7 rebounds and 2 assistSundsvall Dragons are in the top of the league with 19 wins and 5 losses, two losses less than next teams.Jamtland beat Solna 94-89 where Logi Gunnarsson (190-G-81) had 19 points, 3 rebs and 1 assist.. Solna has won 11 games and lost 13.Uppsala Basket had easy win against Eco Orebro. 88-52 Helgi Magnusson (198-G/F-82, college: Catawba) scored 6 points and took 8 rebounds for Uppsala that have now won 13 games and lost 10

JBL Round 25: #1 Aishin Sea Horses are defeated by Mitsubishi Dolphins - by Eurobasket NewsThe most surprising game was a loss of top-ranked Aishin Sea Horses (19-6) in Nagoya on Friday night. Visitors were edged by seventh ranked Mitsubishi Dolphins (9-16) 80-77. It ended at the same time the eight-game winning streak of Aishin Sea Horses. Aishin Sea Horses were trailing by 1 point at halftime but managed to get 5-point lead after three quarters before a 23-15 charge of Mitsubishi Dolphins, which allowed them to win the game. American forward Ron Hale (203-77, college: Florida St.) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 34 points (!!!) and 14 rebounds for the winners and power forward Jun Uzawa (197-81) chipped in 13 points and 9 rebounds. Mitsubishi Dolphins' coach Antonio Lang used an eleven-player rotation in such tough game. At the losing side the former international power forward Kosuke Takeuchi (205-85) responded with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Mitsubishi Dolphins moved-up to sixth place. Aishin Sea Horses at the other side still keep top position with six games lost. Mitsubishi Dolphins are again looking forward to face league's leader Aishin Sea Horses in Kariya in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Aishin Sea Horses will have a break next round. Important game to mention about took place in Tochigi. Eighth ranked Hokkaido (8-17) saved a 3-point victory on the road edging 6th ranked Tochigi Brex (8-17) 89-86 in the fight for the seventh place. American forward Jai Lewis (201-83, college: George Mason, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) nailed a double-double by scoring 30 points and 15 rebounds for the winning side and Takehiko Orimo accounted for 25 points. International guard Takuya Kawamura (193-86) came up with 25 points and 5 rebounds for Tochigi Brex in the defeat. Tochigi Brex's coach Bruce Palmer tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Hokkaido moved-up to seventh place, which they share with defeated Tochigi Brex. Tochigi Brex lost seventh consecutive game. Hokkaido will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Tochigi Brex will play again at home against Hokkaido (#7) in Saporro and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Very important is a home loss of second ranked Toyota Alvark (17-8) against fifth ranked Hitachi Sunrockers (10-15) on Friday night. Host Toyota Alvark was defeated by Hitachi Sunrockers in a tough game in Fuchu 61-67. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Toyota Alvark. Joji Takeuchi fired a double-double by scoring 23 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Philip Ricci produced 14 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for lost side. Toyota Alvark's coach let to play ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Hitachi Sunrockers maintains fifth place with 10-15 record. Loser Toyota Alvark keeps the second position with eight games lost. They share it with Panasonic. Hitachi Sunrockers will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Toyota Alvark will play again against Hitachi Sunrockers in Osaka and hope to secure a win. The game between Top Four teams took place in Kanagawa. 4th placed host Toshiba Thunders (12-13) lost to third ranked Panasonic Trians (17-8) 92-86. Worth to mention a great performance of Fumihiko Aono who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 14 points and 10 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Panasonic Trians have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Toyota. Toshiba Thunders at the other side keep the fourth position with 13 games lost. Panasonic Trians will have a break next round. Toshiba Thunders will play again at home against Panasonic Trians (#3) in Osaka and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

The most surprising game was a loss of top-ranked Aishin Sea Horses (19-6) in Nagoya on Friday night. Visitors were edged by seventh ranked Mitsubishi Dolphins (9-16) 80-77. It ended at the same time the eight-game winning streak of Aishin Sea Horses. Aishin Sea Horses were trailing by 1 point at halftime but managed to get 5-point lead after three quarters before a 23-15 charge of Mitsubishi Dolphins, which allowed them to win the game. American forward Ron Hale (203-77, college: Florida St.) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 34 points (!!!) and 14 rebounds for the winners and power forward Jun Uzawa (197-81) chipped in 13 points and 9 rebounds. Mitsubishi Dolphins' coach Antonio Lang used an eleven-player rotation in such tough game. At the losing side the former international power forward Kosuke Takeuchi (205-85) responded with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) and American guard Richard Frahm (196-77, college: Gonzaga) scored 25 points. Mitsubishi Dolphins moved-up to sixth place. Aishin Sea Horses at the other side still keep top position with six games lost. Mitsubishi Dolphins are again looking forward to face league's leader Aishin Sea Horses in Kariya in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Aishin Sea Horses will have a break next round. Top scorers:Aishin: R.Frahm 25+3reb+1ast, K.Takeuchi 18+13reb+2ast, S.Kashiwagi 15+4reb+9ast, J.Sakuragi 9+5reb+1ast, S.Asayama 8+4reb+1ast, T.Amino 2+4rebMitsubishi: R.Hale 34+14reb+2ast, O.Lett 16+1reb+1ast, J.Uzawa 13+9reb, K.Igarashi 7+7reb+4ast, S.Kajimaya 4+4reb, K.Nakagawa 2+3reb+3ast

The game between Top Four teams took place in Kanagawa. 4th placed host Toshiba Thunders (12-13) lost to third ranked Panasonic Trians (17-8) 92-86. The guests started the game with a very strong first quarter 28-19. But Toshiba Thunders won third quarter 29-22. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Panasonic Trians made 24-of-29 charity shots (82.8 percent) during the game. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international center Fumihiko Aono (210-78) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 14 points and 10 rebounds. International guard Kenta Hirose (193-85) contributed with 17 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. American forward Charles O'Bannon (198-75, college: UCLA) answered with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 13 rebounds and guard Kenji Sato (180-79) added 19 points and 5 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) in the effort for Toshiba Thunders. Five Panasonic Trians and four Toshiba Thunders players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Panasonic Trians have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Toyota. Toshiba Thunders at the other side keep the fourth position with 13 games lost. Panasonic Trians will have a break next round. Toshiba Thunders will play again at home against Panasonic Trians (#3) in Osaka and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Toshiba: K.Sato 19+2reb+5ast, Y.Kuwahara 18+7reb+1ast, C.O'Bannon 17+13reb+3ast, T.Kurihara 10+3reb+1ast, C.Violette 6+4reb, H.Ono 5+1astPanasonic: K.Hirose 17+6reb+2ast, T.Onishi 14+1reb, F.Aono 14+10reb+2ast, M.Nagayama 14+1ast, H.Kinoshita 11+4reb+6ast, A.Custis 11+3reb+2ast

Important game to mention about took place in Tochigi. Eighth ranked Hokkaido (8-17) saved a 3-point victory on the road edging 6th ranked Tochigi Brex (8-17) 89-86 in the fight for the seventh place. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 27-22. But Tochigi Brex won second period 22-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American forward Jai Lewis (201-83, college: George Mason, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) nailed a double-double by scoring 30 points and 15 rebounds for the winning side and the former international guard Takehiko Orimo (190-70) accounted for 25 points. International guard Takuya Kawamura (193-86) came up with 25 points and 5 rebounds and American center Scott Merritt (208-82, college: Marquette) added 15 points and 11 rebounds respectively for Tochigi Brex in the defeat. Four Tochigi Brex players scored in double figures. Tochigi Brex's coach Bruce Palmer tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Hokkaido moved-up to seventh place, which they share with defeated Tochigi Brex. Tochigi Brex lost seventh consecutive game. Hokkaido will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Tochigi Brex will play again at home against Hokkaido (#7) in Saporro and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Tochigi Brex: T.Kawamura 25+5reb+3ast, S.Merritt 15+11reb+1ast, M.Kataoka 12+2reb, Y.Tabuse 10+2reb+3ast, 9+5reb, K.Takeda 8+4reb+1astHokkaido: J.Lewis 30+15reb, T.Orimo 25+1reb+3ast, R.Sakurai 12+3reb+3ast, D.Yamada 9+8reb+4ast, D.Noguchi 5+1ast, T.Abe 4+2reb+1ast

Very important is a home loss of second ranked Toyota Alvark (17-8) against fifth ranked Hitachi Sunrockers (10-15) on Friday night. Host Toyota Alvark was defeated by Hitachi Sunrockers in a tough game in Fuchu 61-67. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Toyota Alvark. The guests were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. The former international center Joji Takeuchi (206-85) fired a double-double by scoring 23 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. American power forward Tyler Smith (203-80, college: Penn St.) chipped in a double-double by scoring 12 points and 12 rebounds. American forward Philip Ricci (202-80, college: Oregon St.) produced 14 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) and guard Takeki Shonaka (180-84) added 13 points respectively for lost side. Toyota Alvark's coach let to play ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Hitachi Sunrockers maintains fifth place with 10-15 record. Loser Toyota Alvark keeps the second position with eight games lost. They share it with Panasonic. Hitachi Sunrockers will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Toyota Alvark will play again against Hitachi Sunrockers in Osaka and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Toyota: P.Ricci 14+7reb+4ast, T.Shonaka 13+2reb+3ast, M.Takahashi 8+6reb+2ast, Y.Okada 7+2ast, T.Watanabe 6+3reb+2ast, J.Gibbs 6+7rebHitachi S.: J.Takeuchi 23+11reb+1ast, D.Kobayashi 21+2reb, T.Smith 12+12reb+3ast, F.Nishimura 7+3reb, K.Matsui 4+5reb+2ast, H.Ueyama 0+1reb

Best players of Latvian LBL round 16 - by Eurobasket NewsAmerican Pierce Caldwell (191-G-88) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's second-best Liepaja and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 16.The 22-year old guard had the game-high 32 points adding seven rebounds for Liepaja in his team's victory, helping them to outclass Zemgale (#6, 6-9) with 26-point margin 86-60. Liepaja maintains the 2nd position in Latvian LBL. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Liepaja will need more victories to improve their 12-5 record. In the team's last game Caldwell had a remarkable eight three-pointers out of 16 attempts. He just recently signed at Liepaja, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Pierce Caldwell averages this season 14.8ppg. Worth to mention Caldwell played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which helped him get the job in pro basketball.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was young forward Martins Laksa (200-F-90) of VEF Riga jrs. Laksa impressed basketball fans with 23 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists. Of course he lead VEF Riga jrs to another comfortable win 88-70 over the lower-ranked LU (#8, 2-14) being unquestionably team leader. VEF Riga jrs' 3rd position in the standings has not changed. His team's 10-5 record is not bad at all. Laksa is a newcomer at VEF Riga jrs and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 17.2ppg (#2). He also registered 5.1 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was Mareks Mejeris (199-F-91) of second-ranked Liepajas Lauvas. Mejeris scored 9 points and grabbed eleven rebounds (!!!). Despite Mejeris' great performance Liepaja lost 77-82 to #4 ranked Barons. But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates especially in such crucial game. The last thing Liepaja needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 12 victories and 5 lost games. Mejeris has a very solid season. In 17 games in Latvia he scored 6.2ppg. He also has 4.6rpg, 1.2bpg and FGP: 58.3%.

The Player of the week is chosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

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LITHUANIA

NKL Round 30: Radviliskis are upset by Perlas-MRU - by Eurobasket NewsThe most important game in the last round took place in Vilnius between second ranked Radviliskis (19-9) and eighth ranked Perlas-MRU (14-14) on Saturday night. Radviliskis was defeated by Perlas-MRU in a tough game on the road 72-77. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Radviliskis. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Radviliskis won third quarter 18-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The best player for the winners was forward Karolis Brusokas (200-91) who had a double-double by scoring 17 points and 17 rebounds. Swingman Laurynas Jacevicius (193-88) chipped in 18 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Audrius Mineikis (202-77) who recorded 18 points and 5 rebounds. Perlas-MRU have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain eighth position with 14-14 record. Radviliskis at the other side dropped to the third place with nine games lost. Perlas-MRU are looking forward to face league's leader Pieno Zvaigzdes in Pasvalys in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Radviliskis will play at home against Zalgiris-Sabonio in Kaunas and is hoping to win this game. Leader Pieno Zvaigzdes delivered the twentieth seventh victory. This time they crushed 5th ranked LKKA-Atletas (17-11) 86-60 in Pasvalys. It was a good game for American guard Darrick Leonard (188-84, college: Aurora) who led his team to a victory with 23 points (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line). Arnas Kazlauskas contributed with 10 points for the winners. Pieno Zvaigzdes' coach Rimantas Endrijaitis felt very confident that he used 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guard Sarunas Vingelis (192-89) replied with 21 points and 6 rebounds for LKKA-Atletas. Pieno Zvaigzdes (27-1) have an impressive 19-game winning streak. They maintain first position. LKKA-Atletas at the other side keeps the fifth place with 11 games lost. They share the position with Zalgiris-Sabonio. Pieno Zvaigzdes will play against Perlas-MRU (#8) in Vilnius in the next round and are hoping to win another game. LKKA-Atletas will play on the road against Mazeikiai and it may be a tough game between close rivals. We should mention about the upset which took place in Joniskis, where higher ranked Zalgiris-Sabonio (17-11) lost to eleventh ranked Delikatesas (9-19) in a road game 71-76 on Saturday. Zilvinas Petraitis scored 28 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the charge for the winners. The best for the losing side was Tauras Jogela with 12 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Zalgiris-Sabonio's coach Priit Vene rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Delikatesas maintains eleventh position with 9-19 record, which they share with Erelita. Loser Zalgiris-Sabonio dropped to the fifth place with 11 games lost. They share the position with LKKA-Atletas. Delikatesas will meet at home bottom-ranked Puntukas (#15) in the next round. Zalgiris-Sabonio will play against Radviliskis (#3) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.

Rest of the games of round 30 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are: Silute was defeated by Nafta Universitetas in Klaipeda 103-92. Akademija was beaten by ABRO-Univ. at home 71-87. Triobet Malsta lost to Meresta on the opponent's court 67-73. Erelita managed to outperform Puntukas in a home game 71-56. The best stats of 30th round was 22 points, 11 rebounds, 9 assists and 5 steals by Aivaras Kvedaravicius of ABRO-Univ..

There was no surprise in Klaipeda where 9th ranked Silute (11-17) was defeated by seventh ranked Nafta Universitetas (16-12) 103-92 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by Nafta Universitetas. Silute managed to win second period 28-24. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Nafta Universitetas dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Silute's 34. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Forward Viktoras Chodosovskis (200-89) scored 17 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and forward Donatas Norkus (196-90) chipped in 17 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was swingman Vytautas Nedzinskas (196-87) with 29 points and 7 rebounds and forward Egidijus Ramanauskas (202-88) produced a double-double by scoring 15 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists. Five Nafta Universitetas and four Silute players scored in double figures. Nafta Universitetas maintains seventh position with 16-12 record. Loser Silute keeps the ninth place with 17 games lost. They share the position with Triobet Malsta. Nafta Universitetas will meet league's second-placed Meresta in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Silute will have a break next round. Top scorers:Nafta Universitetas: T.Klimas 19+4reb+3ast, J.Kazakauskas 17+5reb+2ast, V.Chodosovskis 17+8reb+3ast, D.Norkus 17+6reb+3ast, D.Anuzis 10+2reb+3ast, H.Venskus 10+1reb+4astSilute: V.Nedzinskas 29+7reb+1ast, E.Jurkus 20+2reb+2ast, E.Ramanauskas 15+10reb+4ast, F.Eshon 11+5reb+2ast, E.Kaupaitis 9+5reb+6ast, J.Nausedas 6+1reb+2ast

Everything could happen in Vilnius at the game between two tied teams. Both thirteenth ranked ABRO-Universitetas and 14th ranked Akademija had identical 7-20 record. But Akademija was not able to use a home court advantage and lost to the opponent from Siauliai 87-71 on Saturday night. The game was mostly controlled by ABRO-Universitetas. Akademija managed to win second period 30-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Akademija 47-27 including a 37-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for ABRO-Universitetas especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 64.3 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Guard Aivaras Kvedaravicius (184-88) had a double-double by scoring 22 points, 11 rebounds, 9 assists and 5 steals to lead the charge for the winners and Belarusian swingman Vitali Liutych (198-92) chipped in 22 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. Four ABRO-Universitetas players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was forward Osvaldas Olisevicius (196-93) with 19 points and 7 rebounds and guard Karolis Alekna (183-91) scored 19 points and 6 steals. Akademija's coach rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. ABRO-Universitetas maintains thirteenth position with 8-20 record. Akademija lost third consecutive game. They keep the fourteenth place with 21 games lost. They share the position with Puntukas. ABRO-Universitetas will meet higher ranked Erelita-KTU (#12) in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Akademija will play against Triobet Malsta in Jonava and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:ABRO-Univ.: A.Kvedaravicius 22+11reb+9ast, V.Liutych 22+8reb+3ast, P.Rasamavicius 11+5reb+2ast, A.Kurauskas 11+5reb+5ast, E.Vaupsas 7+5reb+2ast, A.Gurklys 6+7reb+1astAkademija: O.Olisevicius 19+7reb+2ast, K.Alekna 19+3reb+1ast, M.Paliukenas 13+3reb+3ast, P.Lescinskas 8+2reb+3ast, L.Kirlys 6+1reb+1ast, T.Pipiras 3+3reb+1ast

The most important game in the last round took place in Vilnius between second ranked Radviliskis (19-9) and eighth ranked Perlas-MRU (14-14) on Saturday night. Radviliskis was defeated by Perlas-MRU in a tough game on the road 72-77. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Radviliskis. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Radviliskis won third quarter 18-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The best player for the winners was forward Karolis Brusokas (200-91) who had a double-double by scoring 17 points and 17 rebounds. Swingman Laurynas Jacevicius (193-88) chipped in 18 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Perlas-MRU players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Audrius Mineikis (202-77) who recorded 18 points and 5 rebounds and swingman Mantas Pukinskas (198-89) added 15 points and 5 rebounds respectively. Perlas-MRU have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain eighth position with 14-14 record. Radviliskis at the other side dropped to the third place with nine games lost. Perlas-MRU are looking forward to face league's leader Pieno Zvaigzdes in Pasvalys in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Radviliskis will play at home against Zalgiris-Sabonio in Kaunas and is hoping to win this game. Top scorers:Perlas-MRU: T.Padegimas 20+3reb+1ast, L.Jacevicius 18+6reb+4ast, K.Brusokas 17+17reb+2ast, M.Gilys 10+3reb+1ast, P.Semaska 4+1reb+4ast, G.Ramonas 4+5reb+6astRadviliskis: A.Mineikis 18+5reb+1ast, M.Pukinskas 15+5reb+2ast, Z.Kuklierius 10+1reb+7ast, R.Rauktys 9+4reb+2ast, L.Valantinas 9+3reb+2ast, M.Binza 7+5reb

Very expected game in Pakruojis where 10th ranked Triobet Malsta (11-17) was defeated by third ranked Meresta (20-8) 73-67 on Saturday. However just six-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. Triobet Malsta trailed by 16 points after 3 quarters before a 23-13 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 67-73 at the end of the game. Guard Liudas Radavicius (188-88) scored 20 points and 5 rebounds (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line) to lead the charge for the winners and guard Tomas Balciunas (186-79) chipped in 15 points during the contest. The best for the losing side was guard Tadas Sebeziovas (183-85) with 18 points and forward Henrikas Vorotnikovas (202-90) scored 14 points and 7 rebounds. Meresta moved-up to second place. Loser Triobet Malsta dropped to the ninth position with 17 games lost. They share it with Silute. Meresta will meet at home Nafta Universitetas (#7) in the next round where they are favorite. Triobet Malsta will play against Akademija in Vilnius and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Meresta: L.Radavicius 20+5reb+3ast, T.Balciunas 15+3reb+3ast, T.Druktenis 11+2reb, V.Padgureckas 8+3reb+1ast, S.Slivka 7+7reb+1ast, A.Danusevicius 7+7reb+3astTriobet Malsta: T.Sebeziovas 18+4reb+2ast, R.Juknevicius 15+1reb, H.Vorotnikovas 14+7reb+2ast, T.Milinskas 9+11reb, A.Vasiliauskas 7+3reb+6ast, Z.Danielius 3+7reb+1ast

Rather predictable result in Kaunas where twelfth ranked Erelita-KTU (9-19) beat bottom-ranked Puntukas (7-21) 71-56 on Saturday. The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 9-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 71-56. Erelita-KTU dominated on the defensive end, holding Puntukas to just 6 points in second quarter. They also forced 22 Puntukas turnovers. Forward Karolis Pupinis (200-88) scored 15 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and guard Matas Sapiega (180-90) chipped in 6 points and 8 assists during the contest. The best for the losing side was power forward Mindaugas Norkus (200-85) with 7 points and 11 rebounds and forward Darius Tarvydas (200-91) scored 11 points and 5 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Erelita-KTU moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with Delikatesas. Newly promoted Puntukas stay at the bottom position with 21 games lost. They share it with Akademija. Erelita-KTU will meet at home ABRO-Universitetas (#13) in the next round. Puntukas will play against Delikatesas in Joniskis and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Erelita: K.Pupinis 15+8reb+1ast, M.Lisajevicius 12+2reb+1ast, M.Mackevicius 11+3reb+1ast, R.Cepanonis 7+2reb, N.Barauskas 6+1reb, V.Pliauga 6+2rebPuntukas: D.Tarvydas 11+5reb+2ast, T.Galeckas 8+3reb+2ast, M.Norkus 7+11reb+1ast, T.Rinkunas 7+2reb+2ast, A.Urbonas 6+2reb, G.Marciukaitis 5+2reb

Leader Pieno Zvaigzdes delivered the twentieth seventh victory. This time they crushed 5th ranked LKKA-Atletas (17-11) 86-60 in Pasvalys. The game was mostly controlled by Pieno Zvaigzdes. LKKA-Atletas was better in third quarter 20-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a good game for American guard Darrick Leonard (188-84, college: Aurora) who led his team to a victory with 23 points (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line). Power forward Arnas Kazlauskas (204-76, agency: Court Side) contributed with 10 points for the winners. Four Pieno Zvaigzdes players scored in double figures. Pieno Zvaigzdes' coach Rimantas Endrijaitis felt very confident that he used 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guard Sarunas Vingelis (192-89) replied with 21 points and 6 rebounds and forward Vidmantas Sragauskis (200-86) added 11 points in the effort for LKKA-Atletas. Pieno Zvaigzdes (27-1) have an impressive 19-game winning streak. They maintain first position. LKKA-Atletas at the other side keeps the fifth place with 11 games lost. They share the position with Zalgiris-Sabonio. Pieno Zvaigzdes will play against Perlas-MRU (#8) in Vilnius in the next round and are hoping to win another game. LKKA-Atletas will play on the road against Mazeikiai and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Pieno Zvaigzdes: D.Leonard 23+2reb+3ast, A.Kazlauskas 10+4reb+3ast, Z.Fredrick 10+3reb+2ast, M.Virbalas 10+7reb, V.Stanevicius 7+1reb, R.Sugintas 7+5rebLKKA-Atletas: S.Vingelis 21+6reb+3ast, V.Sragauskis 11+3reb+2ast, T.Urbonas 10+5reb, D.Domarkas 7+1reb+3ast, D.Gricius 5+6reb+1ast, P.Ceicys 3+8reb+2ast

We should mention about the upset which took place in Joniskis, where higher ranked Zalgiris-Sabonio (17-11) lost to eleventh ranked Delikatesas (9-19) in a road game 71-76 on Saturday. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Zalgiris-Sabonio won third quarter 18-14. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Delikatesas won last quarter 16-13. They also forced 20 Zalgiris-Sabonio turnovers. Swingman Zilvinas Petraitis (194-88) scored 28 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the charge for the winners and forward Juotas Blazys (197-82) chipped in 20 points and 7 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was forward Tauras Jogela (200-93) with 12 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists and swingman Paulius Sorokas (198-92) scored 10 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists and 6 steals. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Zalgiris-Sabonio's coach Priit Vene rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Delikatesas maintains eleventh position with 9-19 record, which they share with Erelita. Loser Zalgiris-Sabonio dropped to the fifth place with 11 games lost. They share the position with LKKA-Atletas. Delikatesas will meet at home bottom-ranked Puntukas (#15) in the next round. Zalgiris-Sabonio will play against Radviliskis (#3) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either. Top scorers:Delikatesas: Z.Petraitis 28+7reb+5ast, J.Blazys 20+7reb+3ast, J.Jucikas 14+11reb, L.Kutra 10+5reb+5ast, V.Pikalavicius 4+14reb+1ast, R.Puleikis 0Zalgiris-Sabonio: T.Jogela 12+9reb+4ast, M.Kupsas 12+11reb, P.Sorokas 10+8reb+6ast, E.Ulanovas 10+3reb+1ast, G.Zyle 9+4reb+1ast, K.Vecvagars 6+2reb+1ast

Match started impressively led the guests even 19:0. Square hosts its first points scored at 07min 24 second. Saulius Kazevicius (2:19). In second quater hosts scored much more points, and on the court for Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius appeared Martynas Gecevicius scored 7points in 13 minutes. He returned after knee injury.

Alytus team for the match registered 8 players - five guards, two forwards, and yesterday from Sakalai arrived center Marius Janisius.

Lithuanian NKL round 29 best performance: Matas Sapiega - by Eurobasket NewsGuard Matas Sapiega (180-G-90) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Erelita-KTU, receiving a Eurobasket.com NKL Player of the Week award for round 29.The 20-year old player was the main contributor (22 points, seven rebounds and five assists) to his team's victory, helping them to beat LKKA-Atletas (#5, 17-10) 81-71. Erelita maintains the 12th position in Lithuanian NKL. Too late to salvage the team, which is currently ranked such low. They already lost 19 games and recorded just eight victories. In the team's last game Sapiega had a remarkable three three-pointers out of 6 attempts. It's his second year at Erelita and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Matas Sapiega has solid league stats. He is in league's top in assists (6th best: 4.5apg) and averages impressive 2.1spg.

The second best player in last round's games was 23-year old Vytautas Nedzinskas (196-G/F-87) of Silute. Nedzinskas had a very good evening with a double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds. Of course he lead Silute to another comfortable win outscoring slightly lower-ranked Delikatesas (#11, 8-19) 77-51. The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. Silute keeps 9th position. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 11-16 record. Nedzinskas is a newcomer at Silute, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was forward Darius Tarvydas (200-F-91) of Puntukas Jarimpeksas Anyksciai (#15). Tarvydas showcased his all-around game by recording 28 points, six rebounds and four assists in the last round. Despite Tarvydas' great performance Puntukas lost 69-84 to the higher-ranked Meresta (#3, 19-8). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. Puntukas can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 7-20 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for Tarvydas he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Tarvydas has individually a great season in Lithuania. After 27 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 18.6ppg (4th best).

The Player of the week is chosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

Friday's games review - by Eurobasket NewsPhoenix Suns - Boston C. 88-71A year ago Friday night, the Suns had lost 18 of their past 30 games, Amare Stoudemire's effort was being questioned by teammates, and Jason Richardson (6'6''-G-81, college: Michigan St.) had gone colder than the San Francisco Peaks' wind. Then the Suns did something drastically different for a night (sitting Stoudemire and Richardson for the fourth quarter in a win over Dallas) and the rest of the season (a 28-7 close). A year later, the Suns did something drastic again to offer up a thread of hope for a turning point in their season. They not only pounced on the Eastern Conference-leading Boston Celtics like no team had this season, but they downed them with defense in a 88-71 victory Friday night at US Airways Center. The Suns won with a rediscovered defense, keeping the league's top-shooting team to a Suns opponent low and Celtics season low 34.2 percent shooting and 19 turnovers. The Suns had their best first quarter in two months, taking a 30-16 lead when Marcin Gortat (7'0''-C-84) made his second career three-pointer at the buzzer. The Suns did not relent, taking the lead to 17 twice in the second quarter against a Boston team that had not been down by that much at any point this season. Gortat had career highs of 19 points and 17 rebounds and his fourth double-double in the past six games, and Steve Nash (6'3''-G-74, college: Santa Clara) finished with 13 points and 10 assists. The Celtics (35-11) had easy excuses and distractions. They had arrived at their hotel at 4 a.m. Friday after playing in Portland on Thursday night. Paul Pierce entered the game questionable because of ankle and knee injuries. Glen Davis (hamstring strain) and coach Doc Rivers (ejection) did not last the first half. *Courtesy of http://azstarnet.com

Philadelph.76 - Memphis G. 94-99Down 21 points in the third quarter, Memphis coach Lionel Hollins feared the worst. 'We have character,' he said, 'but I think a lot of them were about ready to pack it in.' The 76ers could only wish the Grizzlies quit. Rudy Gay (6'9''-F/G-86, college: Connecticut), Zach Randolph (6'9''-C-81, college: Michigan St.) and the rest of the Grizzlies got going late, scoring 42 points in the fourth quarter to help them rally past the Philadelphia 76ers 99-94 on Friday night. 'I think that's one of the best wins we've ever had,' guard Mike Conley said. 'It shows how far this team has come.' The Sixers came unglued in the fourth, committing 10 turnovers, and didn't have the defensive fortitude to make a big stop. It's the latest fourth-quarter collapse for Doug Collins' team -- the sixth time they've lost when leading by 10-plus points. This was their biggest blown lead in a defeat this year. 'We just went dead,' Collins said. Gay scored 16 points and put Memphis ahead for good with a 6-footer in traffic that capped their biggest rally of the season. Gay helped the Grizzlies take over down the stretch. He threw down a thunderous dunk and then hit the contested jumper to make it 87-85. The Sixers were on the brink of a shot-clock violation when the ball bounced out of bounds. Sam Young made up for a boneheaded basket in the first half with a jumper for a four-point lead and the Grizzlies held on. Randolph had 22 points and 12 rebounds for the Grizzlies. *Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

Oklah.City T. - Washington W. 124-117 OT2Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) scored 10 of his 40 points in the second overtime, Russell Westbrook (6'3''-G-88, college: UCLA) added his third triple-double of the season and the Oklahoma City Thunder kept the Washington Wizards winless on the road with a 124-117 victory on Friday night. Durant converted a three-point play, hit a tiebreaking 3-pointer from the right wing and then added a jumper from the top of the key as the Thunder finally took the lead for good. Washington fell to 0-22 on the road, matching the third-worst start in NBA history. But the Thunder gave the Wizards plenty of chances. Nick Young scored 32 points but missed a potential game-winner at the end of the first overtime, and Rashard Lewis' tip try also missed. *Courtesy of www.desertnews.com

Utah Jazz - Minnesota T. 108-100Utah Jazz guard Earl Watson (6'1''-G-79, college: UCLA) was pushing the pace so much he left his own teammates winded Friday night. But after snapping a six-game losing streak with a 108-100 win over Minnesota, nobody was complaining. ''It is a relief,'' Andrei Kirilenko said. ''It's big time to finally leave it behind and start over.'' The smallest player on the court had perhaps the biggest impact. Watson, starting in place of injured guard Deron Williams (6'3''-G-84, college: Illinois), had a career-high 13 assists to go along with his 10 points. ''Missed baskets, made baskets, he's going to get out there and run,'' said Paul Millsap, who led all scorers with 30 points on 14-of-25 shooting. ''He got a lot of us tired a little bit, but it's for a good cause.'' The Jazz (28-19) also got a strong effort from Kirilenko, who had a season-high 27 points on 10-of-13 shooting. Kirilenko opened the game with a 3-pointer and had a key steal late to seal the victory. The Timberwolves fell to 10-36 and have lost six straight despite Kevin Love's 32nd consecutive double-double. He had 22 points and 15 rebounds despite a slow start. Courtesy of www.comcast.net

Golde State W. - Charlotte B. 113-121 OTAll it took was one big shot and Stephen Jackson (6'8''-F-78, college: Butler Co.CC) silenced the shower of boos he left behind in Golden State. Jackson punctuated his 31 points with a tying 3-pointer in the final second of regulation, and the Charlotte Bobcats rallied past the Warriors 121-113 in overtime Friday for their third straight victory. 'I just think I had the basketball gods with me,' Jackson said. And most of the fans against him. The former Warriors standout who had an ugly divorce from the franchise last season was booed throughout, ignoring that with a 28-footer with 0.6 seconds left in the fourth quarter banked off the glass from the top of the arc. He added seven rebounds, four assists and some big baskets in overtime to help the Bobcats to their fifth win in the last six games. 'It's not a problem. I love the fans here,' said Jackson, who also had his mother among those in attendance. 'They supported me, I had a great time here. The organization was great to me. People can have their own opinions, but I love them anyway. I don't have any bad blood.' Stephen Curry (6'3''-G-88, college: Davidson) had 27 points, and Monta Ellis scored 21 for a Warriors team that blew a 16-point lead and is fading fast during its longest homestand of the season. Golden State has lost four straight games during a stretch of 13 of 14 on its home floor. *Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

LA Lakers - Sacramento K. 95-100DeMarcus Cousins (6'11''-F-90, agency: SportsTalent, college: Kentucky) had 27 points and 10 rebounds, Omri Casspi (6'9''-F/G-88, agency: Interperformances) added 20 points and the Sacramento Kings snapped an eight-game losing streak to the Los Angeles Lakers with a stunning 100-95 victory over the two-time defending champions on Friday night. Kobe Bryant passed Hakeem Olajuwon for eighth place on the NBA's career scoring list while scoring 21 of his 38 points in the first quarter, but the Lakers apparently got caught looking ahead to Sunday's NBA finals rematch with Boston. Samuel Dalembert scored 18 points as the Kings (11-33) jumped to a 20-point lead in the third quarter against the Lakers' disinterested defense. The Kings then survived the Lakers' late rally for their first win over their one-time archrivals since December 2008. *Courtesy of http://losangeles.cbslocal.com

Atlanta H. - New York K. 111-102Joe Johnson (6'8''-F-81, college: Arkansas) scored 34 points and the Atlanta Hawks turned back New York's late comeback to beat the Knicks 111-102 on Friday night. Forward Marvin Williams (6'9''-F-86, college: N.Carolina) made his first start since Dec. 29, giving the Hawks their original starting five for the first time in almost a month, but he may soon face an NBA suspension. With 43.7 seconds remaining, Williams pushed New York's Shawne Williams in the back, starting a brief altercation as each player threw punches. The Hawks led by 24 points in the third quarter before surviving a late scare. Amare Stoudemire led the Knicks with 27 points, including a basket to cut Atlanta's lead to 102-97 with 4:05 remaining. Josh Smith, who had 24 points, answered with a 3-pointer from the corner for Atlanta. Raymond Felton had 21 points and 13 assists for the Knicks. Landry Fields added 15 points. Al Horford had 19 points, 14 rebounds and six assists for Atlanta. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Cleveland C. - Denver N. 103-117Every word Byron Scott uttered was soaked with dejection. As Cleveland's first-year coach analyzed yet another loss by the lowly Cavaliers, Scott was asked if he could identify one positive on another dreary night. 'Yeah,' he said. 'It's over.' Sadly for the Cavs, their losing streak isn't done. Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) scored 33 points, Arron Afflalo (6'5''-G-85, college: UCLA) added 23 and the Denver Nuggets avoided any embarrassment by beating Cleveland 117-103 on Friday night, handing the pathetic Cavaliers their team record-tying 19th straight loss. Still winless in 2011, the Cavs have also dropped 29 of 30 and are now just five losses away from breaking the NBA record of 23 consecutive defeats in one season, an inglorious mark shared by the Vancouver (1995-96) and Denver (1997-98). *Courtesy of www.forbes.com

Miami Heat - Detroit P. 88-87Eddie House (6'1''-G-78, agency: Priority Sports, college: Arizona St.) hit two deciding free throws with 6.5 seconds left, LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) led all scorers with 39 points and the Miami Heat rallied late to beat the Detroit Pistons 88-87 on Friday night. James finished with nine assists and eight rebounds for the Heat, who played without Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade and trailed by 10 late in the third quarter. House had 15 points and Mike Miller added 12 for Miami, which had lost five of its last six games. Ben Gordon scored 21 points for Detroit, which had a chance to win it on the final play, but Austin Daye's dunk attempt after a pass by Tayshaun Prince bounced off the rim. *Courtesy of www.clickondetroit.com

Chicago B. - Orlando M. 99-90Derrick Rose (6'4''-G-88, college: Memphis) scored 22 points despite two painful stomach ulcers, Luol Deng (6'7''-F-85, college: Duke) added 26, and the Chicago Bulls beat Dwight Howard and the Orlando Magic 99-90 on Friday night. The Bulls won for the ninth time in 11 games even though Howard scored a season-high 40 points, taking the lead with a big third quarter and then holding off a late push by Orlando. The Magic cut it to 93-90 after Howard scored, stole a pass and fed Gilbert Arenas for a layup. Deng then scored down low with 1:22 left, and Rose hit four free throws the rest of the way, sealing the win. Deng had 14 in the third as the Bulls doubled up the Magic 34-17, turning a five-point halftime deficit into an 80-68 lead. Carlos Boozer added 16 points and 16 rebounds, helping Chicago avenge an earlier blowout at home by Orlando. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Indiana P. - New Jersey N. 124-92Mike Jr. Dunleavy (6'9''-G/F-80, college: Duke) scored 30 points to help the Indiana Pacers beat the New Jersey Nets 124-92 on Friday night to snap a six-game losing streak. Dunleavy shot 12 for 16 from the field and made 6-of-7 3-pointers in his first game with 30 or more points in more than two months. He helped Indiana post its largest margin of victory this season. Roy Hibbert (7'2''-C-86, college: Georgetown) scored 20 points, Danny Granger had 18 and rookie Paul George added 15 for the Pacers, who shot 63 percent overall and made 12-of-22 3-pointers. It was Indiana's second-best scoring effort of the season, behind its NBA season-high, 144-point outburst Nov. 9 against Denver. Brook Lopez led the Nets with 28 points. New Jersey had won four of its past five games, but allowed its highest point total of the season. Hibbert bounced back after scoring just four points in 15 minutes against Orlando on Wednesday. *Courtesy www.miamiherald.com

Toronto R. - Milwaukee B. 100-116 OTAndrew Bogut figured his Milwaukee Bucks were owed a lucky bounce. They got a big one Friday night. Corey Maggette (6'6''-G-79, college: Duke) hit a tiebreaking 3-pointer in the final minute of overtime and the Bucks beat Toronto 116-110, handing the Raptors their 10th straight loss. Maggette had 29 points and 11 rebounds, and Bogut scored six of his 24 points in overtime as the Bucks won their second straight and fourth in six games. *Courtesy of www.cbssprots.com

Hawks sign Damien Wilkins for rest of season - by Eurobasket NewsDamien Wilkins (6'7''-G/F-80, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia) was nervous after no one said anything to him about his status following Hawks practice Thursday.

His second 10-day contract was set to expire, and the team had to decide if they would sign him for the rest of the season. Wilkins didn't get word the Hawks would retain him until late at night.

'I got the call from my agent, and I didn't even want to answer when his name popped up on my phone,' Wilkins said before the Hawks played the Knicks on Friday at Philips Arena. 'I'm happy. It's like a dream come true. It takes a lot of pressure off of me. I can sleep better now.'

Wilkins, the nephew of Hawks legend Dominique Wilkins, has appeared in 21 games as a reserve. Coach Larry Drew has cast him as a wing defender.

'He brings something to the table that I think we desperately need,' Drew said. 'He is an aggressive defender, and that's who he is. It is not one of those things where you have to keep preaching to him about doing that.'

The Hawks originally signed Wilkins on Dec. 3, soon after guard Joe Johnson had elbow surgery. The Hawks waived Wilkins on Jan. 5, after Johnson had returned to the lineup and before the date contracts became guaranteed.

Wilkins signed 10-day contracts with the Hawks on Jan. 8 and 18. At this point, per NBA rules the Hawks had to sign Wilkins for the rest of the season in order to retain him.

DHEA is an over-the-counter steroid hormone that is banned by the NBA. In 2009, Washington Wizards forward Rashard Lewis tested positive for DHEA and received the same 10-game suspension.

Mayo apparently read page one of the steroid defense book because he claimed ignorance and blamed the failed test on a supplement he takes. (USA Today)

Mayo said in a statement released by the team that he is extremely disappointed he will miss 10 games as the Grizzlies are making a push for the playoffs. He blamed an over the counter supplement that he didn't know was banned by the NBA for the positive test.

''It was an honest mistake, but I take full responsibility for my actions,'' Mayo said in the statement released by the team. I apologize to my fans, teammates and the Grizzlies organization for regrettably not doing the necessary research about what supplements I can put in my body.''

Mayo has had a very rocky season to date. Early in the season, Mayo was removed from the starting lineup and his name has popped up in many trade rumors throughout the season due to his reportedly poor relationship with Coach Lionel Hollins.

Mayo also instigated a fight with teammate Tony Allen on a team flight when Allen requested money from Mayo to square a gambling debt. Mayo verbally abused Allen for nearly 15 minutes, with Allen even walking away to the bathroom at one point. When Allen returned, however, Mayo resumed his taunts and Allen, fed up, struck Mayo in the face. Allen reportedly landed multiple punches, giving Mayo a black eye and a swollen face.

Courtesy of www.masslive.com

All-Star Game starters revealed - by Eurobasket NewsLeBron James (6'8''-F-84) and Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) are headed to the All-Star Game together, and Derrick Rose gave the Chicago Bulls their first starter since Michael Jordan.

They will be joined in the Eastern Conference starting lineup by Amare Stoudemire, who will become the first New York Knicks player to start in nearly two decades, and Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard (6'10''-C/F-85), the leading vote-getter in the conference with nearly 2.1 million.

The Lakers' Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) earned his 13th straight All-Star selection for the Feb. 20 game at his home arena. He is one shy of the record held by Jerry West, Shaquille O'Neal and Karl Malone.

The other starters announced Thursday were Hornets guard Chris Paul, forwards Kevin Durant of Oklahoma City and Carmelo Anthony of Denver, and Houston Rockets center Yao Ming, who is injured and will be replaced on the roster by a player of commissioner David Stern's choosing.

James and Wade, who both received more than 2 million votes from fans, will become the first set of teammates to start for the East since Wade and O'Neal represented the Heat in the 2007 game in Las Vegas.

'We try to represent our team, try to represent our franchise the right way every time we go out on the basketball court, and the fact that we've had so many votes by these fans, like I said it's very humbling and we appreciate it,' James said before the Heat faced the New York Knicks.

Rose beat out the Celtics' Rajon Rondo to earn his first All-Star start and the first by a Chicago player since Jordan started the 1998 game.

'I think it's recognition for the job he's done this year,' Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau said. 'All-Star Games, those are great. He certainly earned it, but ... I'm more concerned with what he's done for our team. And he's done a lot for the team.'

Fans voted for the starters, but the reserves will be chosen by the head coaches in their respective conferences. Their votes must be submitted to the league office by next Tuesday, and the announcement will come next Thursday night.

Stoudemire has revitalized the Knicks since coming from Phoenix in the summer. He beat out perennial starter Kevin Garnett for the second forward spot and is just the fifth Knick to be selected a starter since fans began voting in 1974-75. Patrick Ewing was the last one to start in 1992, though he was elected again in 1997 but couldn't play because of a strained left groin.

In a rarity in fan voting, the East vote seems entirely right. Stoudemire, James and Wade are all in the league's top five in scoring, and Rose and Howard are right there with them as MVP candidates.

'It's an honor,' Wade said of his election. 'It's not as big a deal as it was when I first came in. It was like my heart was racing the day of the final vote hoping I get in. It continues to be an honor to get the same respect from the fans.'

The West vote was flawed with the election of Yao, who despite missing nearly the entire season continues to earn a huge vote total from his native China. West coach Gregg Popovich of the San Antonio Spurs will pick one of his reserves to start.

Paul is the first player in Hornets franchise history to twice be voted a starter.

Blazers assign Armon Johnson to D-League - by Eurobasket NewsThe Portland Trail Blazers have assigned rookie guard Armon Johnson (6'3''-G-89, college: Nevada) to the Idaho Stampede of the NBA Development League, it was announced today by General Manager Rich Cho.

Johnson, 21, is averaging 3.1 points, 1.1 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 8.1 minutes in 28 games this season with the Trail Blazers.

He becomes the 35th NBA player assigned to the D-League this season, and the second assigned by the Trail Blazers (Luke Babbitt, Dec. 8-18).

Portland selected Johnson in the second round (34th pick overall) of the 2010 NBA Draft out of the University of Nevada.

Courtesy of www.blazersedge.com

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POLAND

Kotwica Kolobrzeg add Jessie Sapp - by Eurobasket NewsKotwica Kolobrzeg tabbed Jessie Sapp (191-G-86, college: Georgetown). The player was a free agent since December 2010. Jessie Sapp started the season in Pezinok. The 24-year-old guard tallied 19.6 points, 4.3 boards, 4.2 assists and 2.1 steals per game in Slovakian Extraliga. But Pezinok folded in December. Last season Jessie Sapp played for the Scottish Rocks in BBL. His stats read 16.5 points, 7.0 assists, 5.5 boards and 2.1 steals per appearance. Jessie Sapp made it into Eurobasket.com All-British BBL 1st Team. The guard has already participated in the first training with the team. He is expected to help Kotwica against Anwil at the weekend.

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PORTUGAL

Who'll be the Portuguese NT Coach? - by Luis Filipe CristovaoMario Saldanha, the Portuguese Federation Chairman, announced that this question will only be answered in April. After sacking the Spanish Moncho Lopez (agency: Interperformances ), who didnt better than last place in the Eurobasket qualification last summer, Mario Saldanha told to the press that he's thinking about Mario Leonel Palma to this spot.

'He was my first option before we signed Moncho, but he was in Jordan. Now hes free, but I dont know if we have enough money to pay him.'

Saldanha also confirmed that Josep Claros in one of many Spanish coaches who announced to be free to take charge. The Basketball Board knows also that other Portuguese coaches, like Antonio Paulo Ferreira , and North-Americans coaches are possible choices.

The Portuguese National Team will play the additional qualifying round against Hungary and Finland, during the month of August. Two of those three teams will earn a place in Lithuania 2011.

Sott Roth - Science for Portugal's Basketball - by Hugo CarvalhoBeginning to emerge about the leading names who could be the future national team coach. Here are the names of portuguese Mario Palma, Antonio Paulo Ferreira and the spanish Pep Claros. In late 2010 I put a question here in Eurobasket about who is the favorite coach to the portuguese public.The vote could not have been more obvious and overwhelming majority of the portuguese public preferred the american Scott Roth. Portugal would be unprecedented to take a coach of this caliber! Scott was a professional player and represented the following teams: Wisconsin (81-85), San Antonio Spurs (NBA. 4rd (82) 0.85-not played) - Efes Pilsen (TUR. 85-87) -1987-1988: Albany (CBA) - Utah Jazz (NBA) -1988-1989: Utah Jazz (NBA) - San Antonio (NBA) - Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA from 0.89 to 90) - Vitoria (ESP.90-91) - Panathinaikos (GRE.91 -92) - Lliria (ESP.92-93) - Antalyaspor (TUR. 93-94). After quitting active playing, he worked for the Milwaukee Bucks scout after holding various front office jobs with the Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks, Memphis Grizzlies and Portland Trail Blazers. As Assistant Coach: 1999-2000: Dallas Mavericks (NBA) - Head Coach: 2007-2008: Bakersfield Jam (D-League), hired in Jan. '08 - 2008-2009: Bakersfield Jam (D-League) - Assistant: 2009-2010: Golden State Warriors (NBA) - 2010-2011: Toronto Raptors (NBA). He was also Assistant Coach: Turkish National Team -02 - World Championships in Indianapolis (USA) - 02 Head Coach: Dominican Rep. National Team -07-08 Centrobasket in Quintana-Roo (Mexico) - 08. Sott Roth grew up with the science of basketball. He is the most resonant name and your resume does not leave room for doubt, he is among the world's best players. Sott Roth mark a definitive turning point to put Portugal as a respected team in Europe. Nobody better than he knows how this can be done, after all he knows the Magic of Basketball.

Hugo Carvalho

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SAUDI ARABIA

D1 Round 10 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket NewsThe most shocking disappointment of round 10 was a home defeat of 3rd ranked Al Ansar (7-3) to fourth ranked Ohud (8-2) 68-62. It was a key game for the second position in the league. Ohud moved-up to second place, which they share with Al Fateh. Al Ansar at the other side dropped to the fourth position with three games lost. Ohud is looking forward to face league's leader Al Ittihad in Jeddah in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Al Ansar will play on the road against Al Safwa and is hoping to win this game. Important game to mention about took place in Al Khobar. Second ranked Al Fateh (8-2) saved a 2-point derby victory on the road edging 7th ranked Al Nahda (4-6) 67-65 on Thursday evening. Guest team only slightly avoided a big embarassment. Al Fateh have an impressive six-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 8-2 record behind leader Al Ittihad, which they share with Ohud. Al Nahda at the other side dropped to the eighth place with six games lost. Al Fateh will play against Al Maseerah (#11) in Jeddah in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Al Nahda will play on the road against Al Wahda in Mecca and it may be a tough game between close rivals. 12th ranked Al Shrooq (1-9) was outscored at home by eighth ranked Al Ahli (5-5) with the biggest margin this round 112-64 on Thursday night. Al Ahli moved-up to sixth place. Al Shrooq lost third consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with nine games lost. They share it with Al Maseerah. Al Ahli will meet at home Al Jubail (#9) in the next round. Al Shrooq's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Riyadh to the arena Al Hilal.

In the last game of round 10 Al Safwa won against Al Maseerah on the opponent's court 82-78.

The most shocking disappointment of round 10 was a home defeat of 3rd ranked Al Ansar (7-3) to fourth ranked Ohud (8-2) 68-62. It was a key game for the second position in the league. Ohud moved-up to second place, which they share with Al Fateh. Al Ansar at the other side dropped to the fourth position with three games lost. Ohud is looking forward to face league's leader Al Ittihad in Jeddah in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Al Ansar will play on the road against Al Safwa and is hoping to win this game.

Important game to mention about took place in Al Khobar. Second ranked Al Fateh (8-2) saved a 2-point derby victory on the road edging 7th ranked Al Nahda (4-6) 67-65 on Thursday evening. Guest team only slightly avoided a big embarassment. Al Fateh have an impressive six-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 8-2 record behind leader Al Ittihad, which they share with Ohud. Al Nahda at the other side dropped to the eighth place with six games lost. Al Fateh will play against Al Maseerah (#11) in Jeddah in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Al Nahda will play on the road against Al Wahda in Mecca and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

12th ranked Al Shrooq (1-9) was outscored at home by eighth ranked Al Ahli (5-5) with the biggest margin this round 112-64 on Thursday night. Al Ahli moved-up to sixth place. Al Shrooq lost third consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with nine games lost. They share it with Al Maseerah. Al Ahli will meet at home Al Jubail (#9) in the next round. Al Shrooq's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Riyadh to the arena Al Hilal.

Everything could happen in Jeddah at the game between two tied teams. Both eleventh ranked Al Safwa and 10th ranked Al Maseerah had identical 1-8 record. But Al Maseerah was not able to use a home court advantage and was defeated by the opponent from Safwa 82-78 on Thursday night. Al Safwa (2-8) moved-up to tenth place. Al Maseerah lost sixth consecutive game. They dropped to the eleventh position with nine games lost. They share it with Al Shrooq. Al Safwa will meet at home higher ranked Al Ansar (#4) in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Al Maseerah will play against the league's second-placed Al Fateh (#2) having rather not much hope for a victory.

Geneva Lions add Jules Aw, Arizona Reid extends contract with Monthey - by Eurobasket NewsGeneva Lions signed a deal with Jules Aw (200-F-86). They thus filled in the spot of injured Kenny Thomas (191-G-87, college: Radford). Jules Aw started the season in Monthey. He tallied 10.5 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.0 steals per game before getting injured. Jules Aw was the Senegalese National Team player. He participated at the 2006 World Championship as well as 2005 and 2007 AfroBaskets. In the meantime Arizona Reid (196-F-86, college: High Point) extended his short-term contract with Monthey. The 24-year-old guard joined the team in December. He will now stay with Monthey till the end of the season. Arizona Reid averages 21.8 points, 9.5 boards and 1.8 assists per game for the team.

Arizona Reid gets MVP of the Week award for Swiss LNA - by Eurobasket NewsAmerican Arizona Reid (196-F-86) had an amazing evening in the last round for Monthey and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 17.The 24-year old forward had the game-high 29 points adding nine rebounds for Monthey in his team's victory, helping them to beat Lugano Tigers (#1, 15-2) 93-83. Monthey maintains the 5th position in Swiss LNA. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Monthey will need more victories to improve their 11-6 record. In the team's last game Reid had a remarkable seven three-pointers out of 9 attempts. He turned to be Monthey's top player in his first season with the team. High Point University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Reid is in league's top in points (2nd best: 21.8ppg), rebounds (5th best: 9.5rpg) and averages solid 2.2spg,50.6% FGP and 46.2% from behind 3-point line.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 25-year old American forward A.J. Hawkins (198-F-85) of SAM Massagno. Hawkins impressed basketball fans with 29 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists. It was enough for SAM Massagno to edge Starwings (7-10) by 5 points 95-90. This victory allowed SAM Massagno to move up to 7th position in . His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 7-10 record. Hawkins is a newcomer at SAM Massagno and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was American Steve Smith (200-F-81) of second-ranked Fribourg. Smith scored 20 points and grabbed ten rebounds. He was a key player of Fribourg, leading his team to a 63-58 win against #4 ranked Geneve Lions in a game of the week. Fribourg needs these victories very badly if they think about taking over top position in . Their record at this point is 12 victories and 5 lost games. Smith has a great season in Switzerland. After 14 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 8.1rpg (9th best).

The Player of the week is chosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

Yulon testing imports - by Chris WangYulon started to test several imports this week. The first of three was Nigerian-born Samuel Ekwe (203-C), who only had 8 points and 7 rebounds in his first game Friday. Ekwe and Yulon head coach Zhang Xuelei cited jet lag for the subpar performance. But I'm not sure whether Ekwe will get a second chance, since Yulon will be testing two more --Jermaine Dailey (200cm) from University of Illinois-Chicago and Jason McCoy (206cm) from Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Barrett was a stand out at Auburn from 2005-2009. In 09 Barrett led the Tigers in scoring with an average of 13.9ppg. His impressive play at Auburn earned him several awards including SEC All-Freshman Team and All-SEC HM.

Ricky Harris join Ferro - by Alexei Revenko23 years old american guard Ricky Harris (188-G-87, college: Massachusetts) sign contract with Ferro-ZNTU Zaporozhye. Season 2010-2011 is his first in professional career. He played in BC Siauliai. In Baltic League he scored 10.2 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.9 asissts and 1.2 steals. In Eurocup he played 5 games - 12.6 points, 1.4 asissts, 1.6 rebounds per game. In Lithuanian league Ricky played 8 games - 7.3 points and 2.1 rebounds. During his career in NCAA Ricky played in Massachusetts. In 2008 he was All-Atlantic 10 Most Improved Player of the Year.